E472c: Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides
Main role: emulsifying
Also listed as: CITREM
What is E472c (Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides)?
E472c is a citric-acid ester preparation of mono- and diglycerides. Its structure makes it useful for managing dispersed fat and water phases in suitable food systems.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is emulsifying. Emulsifiers help ingredients mix or remain distributed. The recipe determines whether that means dispersing fat, improving dough handling, or controlling a coating. Their presence alone does not describe the food’s overall nutritional quality.
Food and formulation examples
- Fat spreads
- Emulsified sauces
- Meat-product emulsifier 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 E472c, E 472c, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include CITREM. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
CITREM is an emulsifier rather than a serving of citrus fruit. Its name identifies a chemical component and does not tell you the finished food's vitamin C content.
Is E472c 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 E472c as Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids. 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.