E333 · Calcium citrates
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E333?
Calcium citrates are calcium salts of citric acid, including monocalcium, dicalcium, and tricalcium citrate, used to fortify foods and supplements with calcium and to stabilize texture in some products. Calcium citrate is generally well absorbed, including on an empty stomach, which makes it a popular choice in calcium supplements. It is considered safe for consumption at typical levels.
Also appears on labels as: Calcium citrate, Calcium citrates, Tricalcium citrate, Dicalcium citrate, Food grade calcium citrate, E333, E 333, E-333, INS 333, Calcium citrate powder, Calcium citrate solution, Additivo alimentare E333.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive and supplement levels.
- Very high supplemental calcium intake over time may be associated with kidney stone risk in susceptible individuals; typical fortified-food levels are not a concern.
Research behind the verdict
- Calcium Citrate: Bioavailability and Safety in Food Fortification — Various researchers, Chemical Safety Database (2024). A review of calcium citrate (E333) focusing on its use as both a nutritional supplement and food additive. The research demonstrates that calcium citrate is well-absorbed and provides bioavailable calcium with minimal adverse effects. Studies show it is safer than many other calcium salts, causing less gastrointestinal irritation. The compound occurs naturally in plants and animals, supporting its safety profile. Research indicates that calcium citrate can be beneficial for bone health when used appropriately, with no significant toxicological concerns identified at normal consumption levels.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E333 safe?
Our overall verdict for E333 (Calcium citrates) 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 E333 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Calcium citrates — 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 E333 and why is it used?
Calcium citrates are calcium salts of citric acid, including monocalcium, dicalcium, and tricalcium citrate, used to fortify foods and supplements with calcium and to stabilize texture in some products. Calcium citrate is generally well absorbed, including on an empty stomach, which makes it a popular choice in calcium supplements. It is considered safe for consumption at typical levels.
Does E333 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Calcium citrates.
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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.