E331: Sodium Citrates
Main role: buffering and emulsifying-salt functions
Also listed as: sodium citrate, trisodium citrate, monosodium citrate, disodium citrate
What is E331 (Sodium Citrates)?
E331 covers sodium salts of citric acid. Citrates buffer acidity, and certain sodium citrate formulations help create smooth, stable cheese emulsions. The family code may cover more than one sodium citrate form.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is buffering and emulsifying-salt functions. 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-cheese formulations
- Beverage buffers
- Sauces
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 E331, E 331, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include sodium citrate, trisodium citrate, monosodium citrate, disodium citrate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Sodium citrate used to emulsify cheese is different from adding extra fat or starch. Compare total salt on the nutrition panel because the additive listing does not state its sodium contribution.
Is E331 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 E331 as Sodium citrates. 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.