E333: Calcium Citrates
Main role: acidity control and formulation stabilization
Also listed as: calcium citrate, tricalcium citrate
What is E333 (Calcium Citrates)?
Calcium citrates are calcium salts of citric acid. Their technological role can include acidity control and stabilization. They can also be used in nutrient preparations, but that separate use needs a quantified nutritional declaration.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity control and formulation stabilization. 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
- Acidity-control preparations
- Selected dessert formulations
- Nutrient ingredient blends
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 E333, E 333, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include calcium citrate, tricalcium citrate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A calcium citrate name does not disclose the amount of calcium supplied by a portion. Read the nutrition claim and serving quantities when comparing fortified foods.
Is E333 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 E333 as Calcium 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.