Sodium lactate
What is Sodium lactate?
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid. It is produced commercially by the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as from sugar beet or corn starch, by lactic acid bacteria. The resulting lactic acid is then neutralised with a sodium source, such as sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.
Is Sodium lactate vegan?
Sodium lactate is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Sodium lactate gluten-free?
It is not a source of gluten.
Is Sodium lactate a major allergen?
Sodium lactate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Sodium lactate used for?
Sodium lactate is used as a preservative and acidity regulator in a variety of food products.
Is Sodium lactate safe?
Sodium lactate is authorised as a food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Sodium lactate is used as a preservative and acidity regulator in a variety of food products. It helps to control pH, extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth, and can also contribute to flavour and texture. It is commonly found in processed meats, cheeses, baked goods, and confectionery.
Health notes
Sodium lactate is authorised as a food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It has been evaluated by EFSA, which has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for lactic acid and its salts. At typical levels of consumption found in food, sodium lactate is not associated with adverse health effects. There are no notable controversies surrounding its use.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek | No numerical limit listed |
| 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Sodium lactate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.
Foods that contain Sodium lactate
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