E332: Potassium citrates
What is E332?
E332 covers potassium citrates, the mono- and tripotassium salts of citric acid. They are white, slightly salty powders that dissolve easily in water.
Origin and production
Potassium citrates are made by neutralising citric acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate. The citric acid is normally produced by fermenting sugars with moulds.
Why is it used?
Potassium citrates act as acidity regulators and buffers, keeping the sourness of a product stable and smoothing out sharp acid notes; they also bind metal ions. They are used in soft drinks and other beverages, gummy sweets and candies, and baked goods such as gingerbread.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
E332 is made from mineral and fermentation-derived ingredients and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher concerns.
Safety and regulation
Potassium citrates are authorised as food additives in the European Union, generally at quantum satis. They are widely permitted internationally and have a long record of use in foods and drinks.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E332
