Product Overview
Sodium Citrate, the sodium salt of citric acid, is a white, crystalline powder widely used as a buffering agent, emulsifier, and preservative in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It helps control acidity, stabilize formulations, and enhance flavor profiles while maintaining product safety and shelf life.
Chemical and Physical Properties
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Chemical Formula: C6H5Na3O7
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Molecular Weight: 258.06 g/mol
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Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules
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Purity: Typically ≥ 99%
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Solubility: Highly soluble in water
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pH (1% Solution): Approximately 7.5 – 9.0
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Odor: Odorless
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Taste: Slightly salty, mildly tart
Applications and Functional Benefits
Sodium Citrate is used for:
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Buffering and pH control in beverages, dairy products, and processed foods
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Emulsifying and stabilizing cheese and other dairy products
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Enhancing flavor and mouthfeel in soft drinks and confectionery
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Preventing crystallization and improving texture in jams and jellies
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Acting as an anticoagulant in pharmaceuticals
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Serving as a chelating agent and pH regulator in cosmetics and personal care products
Its versatility and mild sensory profile make it suitable for many product formulations.
Quality Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Typical Result |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder | Complies |
| Purity (Assay) | ≥ 99.0% | 99.3% |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 5.0% | 3.5% |
| pH (1% Solution) | 7.5 – 9.0 | 8.2 |
| Heavy Metals (Lead) | ≤ 5 ppm | < 2 ppm |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.1% | 0.05% |
| Solubility | Soluble in water | Complies |
Sensory Attributes
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Appearance: White crystalline powder
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Odor: Odorless
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Taste: Slightly salty with a mild tartness
Packaging and Storage
Sodium Citrate is supplied in moisture-resistant 25 kg bags or drums. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from moisture and contaminants to maintain its quality. Shelf life is generally 2 years under appropriate storage conditions.
Regulatory Status
Sodium Citrate is approved by FDA, EFSA, JECFA, and other global regulatory authorities. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and widely accepted for use in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
Conclusion
Sodium Citrate is a versatile ingredient that provides buffering, emulsifying, and flavor-enhancing properties. Its high purity, excellent solubility, and neutral sensory profile make it indispensable in numerous food and pharmaceutical formulations.
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