Sodium Citrate (E 331)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Sodium citrate (E 331) refers to the sodium salts of citric acid, the acid of citrus fruit. Trisodium citrate is the form usually listed in processed cheese, drinks and desserts.

What the evidence review says

Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid, the acid in citrus fruit, used in processed cheese, drinks and desserts. JECFA and FDA found no notable concern at food-use levels. It adds some sodium. A completed modern EFSA re-evaluation was not located.

No notable toxicology concern at food-use levels in the JECFA group evaluation of citric acid and its sodium salts, or in the FDA GRAS listing. A completed modern EFSA re-evaluation of E 331 was not located. People limiting sodium may count it toward total sodium. High supplemental intakes can upset the stomach; that is outside ordinary food levels.

• Source: Fiume MM et al., Int J Toxicol, 2014 · doi:10.1177/1091581814526891

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This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.