Sodium citrates
Salt of citric acid.
- Category
- Emulsifiers, Sequestrants, Stabilisers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Sodium citrates (E331) are the sodium salts of citric acid. They have a slightly tart, salty taste, hence their nickname "sour salt". In food manufacturing, they act as acidity regulators and powerful emulsifiers.
How it is used in food
Makes processed cheese melt smoothly instead of splitting.
Commonly found in- Processed cheese slices (American cheese)
- Cheese sauces and nacho dips
- Energy drinks and sodas (to buffer tartness)
- Ice cream (to prevent fat separation)
Health and safety
None known.
Completely safe buffering agent.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E331
Also printed assodium citrate · Sour salt · Trisodium citrate
How it is made
Produced by neutralizing citric acid (E330) with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.
- Neutralization — Citric acid is reacted with sodium carbonate to form the salt, which is then dried into a crystalline powder.
Worth knowing
Works by loosening the calcium that holds casein proteins together.
Conclusion
Sodium citrate is famous in the culinary world as the ultimate cheese-melting secret. By binding with the calcium in cheese, it alters the proteins so the cheese melts into a perfectly smooth liquid instead of separating into a greasy, stringy mess.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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