Is sodium citrate a safe additive? An In-Depth Look at Its Safety and Uses

November 2, 2025 •

4 min read

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified sodium citrate as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) for its intended use in food, a designation that provides high safety assurance. However, the question remains for many consumers: is sodium citrate a safe additive, and what should we know about its role in our food supply?

Quick Summary

Sodium citrate is an FDA-approved food additive known as E331, derived from citric acid. It functions as a safe emulsifier, preservative, and acidity regulator in many common products. While generally harmless in typical food amounts, excessive intake or certain health conditions can lead to side effects.

Key Points

FDA GRAS Status: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has classified sodium citrate as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) for use in food.
Dose-Dependent Risks: Any potential side effects are typically mild and associated with high-dose medicinal use, not the low concentrations found in processed foods.
Crucial Functions: It is a key ingredient for its emulsifying, preservative, and pH-regulating properties, contributing to the texture, stability, and taste of many products.
Special Population Caution: Individuals with specific health issues, such as kidney disease or those on sodium-restricted diets, should monitor their intake and consult a doctor.
Derived from a Natural Source: While commercially produced via fermentation, sodium citrate is the salt of citric acid, which occurs naturally in citrus fruits.

What is Sodium Citrate?

Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid, a naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits. While it is naturally present in some foods, the version used commercially is produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as molasses, using microorganisms. The final product is typically a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and has a slightly salty and sour taste. It is often listed on food labels as sodium citrate or by its European E-number, E331.

The Multifaceted Roles of Sodium Citrate

Sodium citrate is a highly versatile ingredient with applications spanning the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Its primary functions are related to its ability to control pH levels and act as a chelating agent, which binds to metal ions.

Food Industry Applications

In food manufacturing, sodium citrate serves several critical purposes:

Emulsifier: It helps blend ingredients that would normally separate, such as oil and water. This is why it is vital for creating the smooth, consistent texture of processed cheese and other creamy sauces.
Acidity Regulator: It acts as a buffer, maintaining a stable pH level in foods and beverages. This prevents them from becoming too acidic or too alkaline, balancing flavors in items like soft drinks and jams.
Preservative: By helping to maintain the correct pH and acting as a sequestrant, it inhibits the growth of microorganisms and slows down oxidation, which extends the product's shelf life.
Flavor Enhancer: The compound can balance and improve the flavor profile of certain foods, especially those that are acidic.

Medical and Other Uses

Beyond food, sodium citrate is used in medical and industrial settings:

Anticoagulant: In medicine, it is used to prevent blood from clotting during storage for transfusions or laboratory tests.
Urinary Alkalinizer: It is prescribed to treat conditions like metabolic acidosis and to prevent certain types of kidney stones by making urine less acidic.
Cosmetics: It is used in shampoos and soaps to regulate pH and as a sequestrant.

Sodium Citrate Safety: What the Experts Say

Regulatory bodies worldwide, including the U.S. FDA, have evaluated the safety of sodium citrate and consider it safe for consumption at typical levels. The key to its safety, as with many additives, lies in the dosage. The concentrations found in most processed foods are far below the level where negative effects might be observed.

Potential Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, some side effects are possible, particularly with high-dose medicinal use or for sensitive individuals.

Mild side effects: These are most common with oral medical solutions and include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and mild diarrhea.
Overdose: In rare cases of extreme overdose, serious side effects can occur, such as alkalosis (an excess of alkali in the body fluids), muscle cramps, seizures, or electrolyte imbalances.

Comparing Sodium Citrate and Citric Acid

Sodium citrate and citric acid are often mentioned together, but they serve different functions. Understanding the difference is key to appreciating their roles.


Feature	Sodium Citrate	Citric Acid
Function	Controls and buffers acidity; acts as an emulsifier.	Adds acidity and a distinct sour taste.
Taste Profile	Slightly salty and mildly sour.	Strongly sour.
pH Effect	Raises pH (makes less acidic).	Lowers pH (makes more acidic).
Use in Cheese	Essential for making smooth, meltable cheese sauces.	Can cause separation and clumping.
Best For	Stabilizing emulsions, buffering pH, preserving products.	Adding a tart flavor, acidifying beverages.

Important Considerations for Certain Individuals

Although safe for most people, some individuals need to be cautious with their sodium citrate intake, particularly in medical or supplemental forms.

Sodium-Restricted Diets: Since it contains sodium, those on a low-sodium diet need to monitor their intake, as high doses can significantly contribute to their daily sodium consumption.
Kidney Disease: The kidneys are crucial for regulating electrolyte balance. For those with compromised kidney function, high levels of sodium citrate can cause electrolyte imbalances.
Heart Conditions: Individuals with heart conditions or high blood pressure should be cautious due to the sodium content.

Conclusion: Is Sodium Citrate a Safe Additive?

Yes, sodium citrate is considered a safe additive for most people when consumed within the recommended and regulated amounts found in food and beverages. Its long-standing classification as GRAS by the FDA and other global authorities is based on extensive scientific review. The potential for adverse effects is almost exclusively linked to high doses used for medical purposes or in cases of specific pre-existing health conditions. For the average consumer enjoying products like processed cheese or soft drinks, the use of sodium citrate is not a cause for concern. As with any ingredient, moderation is key. For official guidance on food additives in the United States, refer to the FDA website.

Addressing Common Myths

Despite its safety profile, some myths persist about sodium citrate. It is not a toxic or dangerous chemical, nor does it cause cancer or weight gain when used appropriately in foods. It's a non-toxic compound at typical consumption levels that is excreted by the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid, commonly used as a food additive (E331) to regulate acidity, act as an emulsifier, and preserve products.

For the majority of people, no. It is considered safe by regulatory bodies at normal consumption levels. Health risks are generally linked to very high doses taken medically, not typical food intake.

People on sodium-restricted diets, those with kidney or heart disease, and individuals with a rare allergy to the compound should be cautious. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding medicinal or supplementary use.

Yes, sodium citrate is considered safe for children when consumed in the typical amounts found in food and beverages. However, for medical use, dosages should be determined by a doctor.

It is both, depending on the source. Sodium citrate is the salt of naturally occurring citric acid, but most commercial versions are produced synthetically through fermentation for cost-effectiveness.

Allergies are very rare, but possible. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, require immediate medical attention.

Citric acid adds a strong sour flavor, while sodium citrate is a milder-tasting buffer that controls and regulates acidity. Sodium citrate also acts as an emulsifier.