Triethyl citrate
What is Triethyl citrate?
Triethyl citrate is an ester formed from ethanol and citric acid. It is a colourless, oily liquid with a faint, pleasant odour. It is produced industrially through the esterification of citric acid with ethanol.
Is Triethyl citrate vegan?
Triethyl citrate is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Triethyl citrate gluten-free?
It is not a gluten-containing ingredient.
Is Triethyl citrate a major allergen?
Triethyl citrate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Triethyl citrate used for?
Triethyl citrate is used as a food additive, primarily as a stabiliser, emulsifier, and solvent for flavours and colours.
Is Triethyl citrate safe?
Triethyl citrate is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Triethyl citrate is used as a food additive, primarily as a stabiliser, emulsifier, and solvent for flavours and colours. It can also act as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in food products. It is found in a variety of foods, including baked goods, confectionery, and some beverages.
Health notes
Triethyl citrate is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated triethyl citrate. JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical intake levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. There are no widespread controversies regarding its safety.
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 |
|---|---|
| 10.2 processed eggs and egg products | No numerical limit listed |
| 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’, | 3500 |
Allergen info
Triethyl citrate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a gluten-containing ingredient.
Foods that contain Triethyl citrate
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