Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Food additive E331(ii) is the disodium salt of citric acid, commonly known as disodium citrate. It is one of three forms of the additive E331, along with E331(i) (monosodium citrate) and E331(iii) (trisodium citrate).
Disodium citrate has the chemical formula Na2C6H6O7 ∙ 1.5 ∙ H2O and is typically used as a white crystalline powder. Its taste is mildly acidic—less pronounced than that of monosodium citrate, but not as salty as trisodium citrate.
Thanks to its buffering properties, E331ii effectively regulates the acidity of foods. It dissolves well in water and is widely used in the production of soft drinks, canned vegetables, jelly desserts, and pharmaceutical products such as effervescent tablets.
In food processing, E331ii acts as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It can also bind metal ions (particularly calcium or magnesium), helping to prevent sediment formation or discoloration in food products.
For more detailed information on the properties, safety, and legal status of citrates, see the main article on E331.