What is E333?
E333 is Calcium Citrates — calcium salts of citric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E333 (Calcium Citrates)?
E333 is the E-number for calcium 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. Calcium salts of citric acid. Like every E-number, E333 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 E333 in detail below.
Where is E333 found?
E333 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 (E333) or by its full name, calcium citrates. Common foods that may contain E333 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E333 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E333 safe?
E333 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 E333.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E333 vegan?
E333 is vegan. Calcium salts of citric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E333 →Is E333 halal?
E333 is halal. Calcium salts of citric acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E333 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E333 in food?
E333 is Calcium Citrates — calcium salts of citric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E333 safe to eat?
Yes. E333 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E333 vegan?
E333 is vegan. Calcium salts of citric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E333 halal?
E333 is halal. Calcium 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).