Overview
Trisodium citrate dihydrate (food grade) is a sodium salt of citric acid with the chemical formula C6H5Na3O7·2H2O. As a multifunctional food additive (E331), it is approved by global regulatory bodies including the FDA and EFSA. Its primary roles include pH adjustment, emulsification, and sequestering metal ions. The compound is synthesized through neutralization of citric acid with sodium hydroxide or carbonate, followed by crystallization. In the food industry, it is valued for its mild saline taste, non-toxicity, and compatibility with other ingredients. Beyond food, it serves as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes and a component in detergent formulations due to its chelating properties.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The compound appears as odorless, white crystals or powder with a slightly salty flavor. It exhibits high solubility in water (72 g/100 mL at 25°C) but is insoluble in ethanol. Its aqueous solution is weakly alkaline (pH ~8–9 for 5% solution), making it effective for buffering acidic systems. The dihydrate form loses water molecules at 150°C, converting to anhydrous trisodium citrate. Key chemical properties include its ability to chelate divalent metal ions (e.g., Ca2+, Mg2+), which prevents oxidation and stabilizes emulsions. This property is critical in dairy processing, where it prevents protein coagulation. Its thermal stability allows use in baked goods and sterilized products.
Main Applications
In food processing, trisodium citrate dihydrate is widely used in dairy products like processed cheese (as an emulsifier, 2–3% by weight), carbonated beverages (pH control, 0.1–0.3%), and jams (gelling aid). It enhances the melting properties of cheese and prevents fat separation. The compound also acts as a preservative in meat products by inhibiting bacterial growth. Pharmaceutical applications include its use as an alkalizing agent in oral rehydration solutions and as an anticoagulant (3.8% solution in blood collection tubes). Industrially, it is employed in eco-friendly detergents to replace phosphates and in electroplating solutions for metal ion chelation.
Safety and Storage
Trisodium citrate dihydrate is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA and has an ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) of 'not specified' by JECFA. However, excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Workplace precautions include using dust masks to avoid respiratory irritation during handling. Storage requires airtight containers in cool (<25°C), dry conditions to prevent caking or moisture absorption. Bulk shipments should be protected from direct sunlight. Shelf life typically exceeds 24 months if stored properly. Incompatible materials include strong oxidizers and acids, which may cause decomposition.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing food-grade trisodium citrate, prioritize suppliers with certifications such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia), FCC (Food Chemicals Codex), or EU-grade compliance. Request COA (Certificate of Analysis) for parameters like assay (≥99.0%), heavy metals (<10 ppm), and microbial counts. Packaging options include 25 kg multi-layer paper bags or 1,000 kg bulk sacks with polyethylene liners. For cost efficiency, consider long-term contracts with manufacturers in China (major global producer) or Europe. Negotiate pricing based on volume, with typical MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) of 500 kg. Logistics should ensure temperature-controlled transport if ambient temperatures exceed 30°C to prevent clumping.
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