What is E331?
E331 is Sodium Citrates — sodium salts of citric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E331 (Sodium Citrates)?
E331 is the E-number for sodium citrates, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Sodium salts of citric acid. Like every E-number, E331 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E331 in detail below.
Where is E331 found?
E331 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E331) or by its full name, sodium citrates. Common foods that may contain E331 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E331 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E331 safe?
E331 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E331.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E331 vegan?
E331 is vegan. Sodium salts of citric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E331 →Is E331 halal?
E331 is halal. Sodium salts of citric acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E331 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E331 in food?
E331 is Sodium Citrates — sodium salts of citric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E331 safe to eat?
Yes. E331 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E331 vegan?
E331 is vegan. Sodium salts of citric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E331 halal?
E331 is halal. Sodium salts of citric acid, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).