Food Additives Encyclopedia

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triethyl citrate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nametriethyl citrate
English nametriethyl citrate
INS/E numberINS 1505
Functional classThickener, Vegetable gum
Year adopted1974
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Triethyl citrate is a colourless oily organic ester produced by esterifying citric acid with ethanol; it is a synthetic additive. It is used mainly as an antifoaming agent, a solvent and a plasticiser in food-contact materials such as casings and capsules.

Source ​

Industrial：柠檬酸与乙醇在酸催化下酯化生成柠檬酸三乙酯，经脱色、蒸馏、精制制得

Why is it used? ​

  • Antifoaming agent reducing foam during processing
  • Solvent for flavours, colours and preservatives
  • Plasticiser in food-contact materials (casings, capsules)
  • Improves film flexibility and processability
  • Low toxicity and biodegradable

Common Foods ​

  • Carbonated beverage processing (defoaming)
  • Flavour and fragrance preparations
  • Sausage casings and edible films
  • Capsule and tablet coatings
  • Functional confectionery

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：not limited

Concerns：

  • 主要来自食品接触材料残留，须符合迁移限量

Usage Standard ​

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 1505)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.515 (synthetic flavouring subst.); 21 CFR 181.27 (plasticiser)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 1505)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (E 1505)

In a nutshell ​

Triethyl citrate is a synthetic multifunctional agent used as defoamer, solvent and plasticiser, safe with no ADI limit.

Consumer Advice ​

Triethyl citrate is an ester of citric acid and ethanol, used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, chelating agent, and foam stabilizer in whipped beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It is safe within approved limits and is generally produced from synthetic or fermented citric acid with no animal ingredients; people sensitive to citric acid should consume it according to label amounts.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.