acidity regulator INS 333

Calcium Citrates E333

sequestrant, firming agent, nutrient β€” Primarily synthetic (from citric acid).

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU: Approved
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA: Approved
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan: Approved
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AU/NZ: Approved
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Tricalcium citrate (E333iii), Dicalcium citrate (E333ii), Monocalcium citrate (E333i)

CAS: 813-94-5 (i), 5785-44-4 (ii), 7693-13-2 (iii)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Calcium Citrates is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Calcium Citrates has a "quantum satis" authorization β€” Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted in various food categories

Official EFSA Link
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Also used as a calcium source for nutrient supplementation

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: ζ—’ε­˜ζ·»εŠ η‰©

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by neutralizing citric acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate. The degree of neutralization and reaction conditions determine which form is produced: monocalcium citrate (E333i), dicalcium citrate (E333ii), or tricalcium citrate (E333iii). Tricalcium citrate is the most commonly used form in food applications.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Buffering agent and chelating agent in skincare formulations.

Medical

Calcium supplement (more readily absorbed than calcium carbonate), antacid, mineral fortification.

Industrial

Water treatment, pharmaceutical excipient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calcium Citrates (E333)?
Calcium Citrates (E333) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is sequestrant, firming agent, nutrient and synthetic (from citric acid). Calcium citrates are synthetic compounds produced from citric acid and calcium salts. While citric acid is naturally abundant in citrus fruits, the calcium salts are manufactured.
What foods contain Calcium Citrates?
Calcium Citrates is used in various food categories including Dairy products and analogues, Non-alcoholic beverages. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.
Is Calcium Citrates the same as Calcium citrate?
Yes, Calcium Citrates is also known as Calcium citrate, Tricalcium bis(2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate). These are different names for the same substance.