E331 · Sodium citrates (monosodium, disodium, trisodium)
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E331?
Sodium citrates are the sodium salts of citric acid: E331(i) monosodium, E331(ii) disodium, and E331(iii) trisodium citrate. They function as acidity regulators/buffers, sequestrants, and emulsifying salts (e.g., processed cheese), and help control tartness in beverages. Widely permitted in foods with category-specific limits.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium citrate, Monosodium citrate, Disodium citrate, Trisodium citrate, Sodium salts of citric acid, Citric acid sodium salt, Citric acid, sodium salts, Na3C6H5O7, Na2HC6H5O7, NaH2C6H5O7, E331, E 331.
What the evidence says
- Adds dietary sodium; consider in sodium-restricted diets.
- Large doses may cause mild GI upset (osmotic/laxative effect).
- Alkalinises urine; use caution with certain kidney conditions unless medically indicated.
Research behind the verdict
- Safety Assessment of Sodium Citrate in Food Applications — Joanna Sikorska, Foodcom Technical Review (2024). A comprehensive safety evaluation of sodium citrate (E331) as a food additive conducted in 2024. The study reviewed toxicological data and concluded that sodium citrate poses no significant health risks when used according to approved food additive regulations. The research noted that sodium citrate is effective as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and pH regulator in processed foods. The assessment found no evidence of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, or reproductive toxicity. The acceptable daily intake remains unlimited due to its excellent safety profile.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E331 safe?
Our overall verdict for E331 (Sodium citrates (monosodium, disodium, trisodium)) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E331 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium citrates (monosodium, disodium, trisodium) — 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 E331 and why is it used?
Sodium citrates are the sodium salts of citric acid: E331(i) monosodium, E331(ii) disodium, and E331(iii) trisodium citrate. They function as acidity regulators/buffers, sequestrants, and emulsifying salts (e.g., processed cheese), and help control tartness in beverages. Widely permitted in foods with category-specific limits.
Does E331 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium citrates (monosodium, disodium, trisodium).
Watch E331
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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.