E325 · Sodium lactate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E325?
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, used in the food industry as a preservative, humectant, and flavor enhancer, especially in processed meats and baked goods. It helps retain moisture and inhibit bacterial growth, extending shelf life. It is also used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and pH adjuster, and in medical IV fluids to correct electrolyte imbalances. It is considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Also appears on labels as: E325, E 325, E-325, INS 325, Sodium lactate, Lactic acid sodium salt, Sodium 2-hydroxypropanoate, NaC3H5O3, Food Additive E325, Additive 325, Sodium salt of lactic acid, S-lactate.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels.
- Adds a small amount of dietary sodium, a minor consideration for sodium-restricted diets.
Frequently asked questions
Is E325 safe?
Our overall verdict for E325 (Sodium lactate) 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 E325 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium lactate — 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 E325 and why is it used?
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, used in the food industry as a preservative, humectant, and flavor enhancer, especially in processed meats and baked goods. It helps retain moisture and inhibit bacterial growth, extending shelf life. It is also used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and pH adjuster, and in medical IV fluids to correct electrolyte imbalances. It is considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Does E325 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium lactate.
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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.