Allervibe
E332
Potassium citrates
The potassium salts of citric acid, used to regulate acidity and bind metal ions.
i Additive Details
| Is E332 Potassium citrates safe?
Well tolerated at food levels. They supply potassium, which matters for people with reduced kidney function or taking potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, since they may need to limit potassium. Large quantities may cause stomach upset or loose stools.
| Uses
Buffer acidity in soft drinks, sports drinks, jams, jellies, processed cheese and milk powders, and replace sodium citrate in reduced-sodium products. They are also used in mineral supplements and, medically, to make urine less acidic in people prone to certain kidney stones.
| Interactions
Used alongside citric acid (E330) and sodium citrate (E331) to fine-tune pH and the sodium-to-potassium balance of a recipe. They chelate calcium and magnesium, which stabilises dairy proteins and slows metal-catalysed oxidation of fats. E332 covers the monopotassium and tripotassium forms.
| Origin
Made by neutralising citric acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate. The citric acid comes from fermentation of sugars, usually with the mould Aspergillus niger, rather than from citrus fruit.
| Daily Intake
JECFA and EFSA list the citrates with 'ADI not specified', the safest category. The body handles citrate as an ordinary metabolite; for sensitive people it is the potassium content rather than the citrate that matters.
Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related additives
- E296 Malic acid The acid that gives apples their sharpness, used to add tartness and control pH.
- E297 Fumaric acid A powdered organic acid with a strong, slow-dissolving sourness, used as an acidulant.
- E331 Trisodium citrate The sodium salt of citric acid, used to control acidity and to bind metal ions.
- E334 L(+)-tartaric acid The natural acid of grapes, used to add sourness and as the acid in baking powder.
- E575 Glucono-delta-lactone A mild acid formed from glucose that slowly turns into gluconic acid once it meets water.
- E338 Phosphoric acid A strong mineral acid used to acidify soft drinks and adjust the pH of processed foods; it gives cola its sharp bite.
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