E325: Sodium Lactate
Main role: acidity control and moisture retention
Also listed as: sodium L-lactate
What is E325 (Sodium Lactate)?
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid. It can regulate acidity, retain moisture, and support preservation in suitable food systems. The name lactate refers to lactic-acid chemistry rather than automatically indicating milk or lactose.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity control and moisture retention. Acidity regulators adjust or buffer pH. The resulting acidity depends on the whole recipe, not just the presence of one acid or salt. Acidity control may also affect texture and the performance of other ingredients.
Food and formulation examples
- Processed-meat formulations
- Sauces
- Moisture-control food preparations
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E325, E 325, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include sodium L-lactate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Lactate and lactose are different substances. A sodium lactate entry alone does not establish a dairy allergen, but people with allergies should still check the complete allergen declaration and manufacturer information.
Is E325 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E325 as Sodium lactate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.