E1505 · Triethyl citrate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E1505?
Triethyl citrate is an ester of citric acid used in food mainly as a foam stabilizer in egg whites and as a carrier/solvent for flavorings. It is also used in pharmaceuticals as a plasticizer in tablet coatings and in cosmetics such as deodorants and perfumes. It is considered safe at the low levels used in food.
Also appears on labels as: Triethyl citrate, Citrate triethyl, Food grade triethyl citrate, Triethyl citrate powder, Triethyl citrate solution, Additivo alimentare triethyl citrate, Additif alimentaire triethyl citrate, Lebensmittelzusatzstoff triethyl citrate, E1505, E 1505, E-1505, INS 1505.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Triethyl Citrate Safety Evaluation: Plasticizer and Carrier Applications — EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials and Processing Aids, EFSA Journal - Food Contact Materials Assessment (2021). A detailed safety assessment of triethyl citrate (E1505) examining its use as a plasticizer and carrier in food applications. The research confirmed that triethyl citrate, derived from citric acid, presents excellent safety margins when used according to approved guidelines. The study noted its biodegradable nature and low toxicity profile, making it suitable for food contact applications. The assessment highlighted its effectiveness as a safer alternative to other plasticizers while maintaining food safety standards.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E1505 safe?
Our overall verdict for E1505 (Triethyl citrate) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E1505 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Triethyl citrate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E1505 and why is it used?
Triethyl citrate is an ester of citric acid used in food mainly as a foam stabilizer in egg whites and as a carrier/solvent for flavorings. It is also used in pharmaceuticals as a plasticizer in tablet coatings and in cosmetics such as deodorants and perfumes. It is considered safe at the low levels used in food.
Does E1505 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Triethyl citrate.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.