Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Food additive E331(iii) is the trisodium salt of citric acid — a chemical compound known as trisodium citrate. It is the most sodium-rich form among the subtypes of E331, which also include E331(i) (monosodium citrate) and E331(ii) (disodium citrate).
Trisodium citrate has the chemical formula Na3C6H5O7 and appears as a white granular or powdery substance. It has a mildly alkaline nature and a soft salty taste, making it a common flavoring agent in food products.
Due to its strong chelating properties, E331iii is widely used as a color stabilizer, preservative, and acidity regulator — especially in dairy products, processed cheese, meat products, and beverages. In the pharmaceutical industry, it may be included in oral rehydration solutions.
Compared to other citrate forms, trisodium citrate has more pronounced buffering and chelating capabilities, which makes it particularly effective in stabilizing food systems with high biochemical activity.
For more information about the properties, health effects, and legal status of this group of substances, see the main description of additive E331.