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E380 Triammonium Citrate – Food Additive
E380 (triammonium citrate) is an approved food additive used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier in processed food products.
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E380 (triammonium citrate) is an approved food additive used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier in processed food products.
What is E380?
E380, commonly known as triammonium citrate, is a food additive belonging to the group of citrates. It is the triammonium salt of citric acid. In the food industry, E380 is primarily used as an acidity regulator, buffering agent, and emulsifier. The substance is approved in the European Union under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives.
Origin and Chemical Properties
Triammonium citrate is produced by neutralizing citric acid with ammonia. It appears as a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. Its chemical formula is C₆H₁₂N₃O₇, and it belongs to the class of organic ammonium salts. Due to its buffering capacity, E380 can stabilize the pH value of food products effectively.
Uses in Food
E380 is primarily found in the following food categories:
- Processed cheese products: As a melting salt, E380 promotes even distribution of fat and protein, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
- Confectionery and jams: Used to regulate pH levels and stabilize texture during production.
- Non-alcoholic beverages: As an acidity regulator to maintain consistent flavor profiles.
- Dietary supplements: As an ammonium source in specialized formulations.
Function and Mechanism of Action
The technological function of E380 is based on several properties:
- Acidity regulation: E380 buffers the pH in food products by neutralizing acids or bases, creating a stable chemical environment.
- Emulsification: As an emulsifier, E380 supports the blending of water and fat, contributing to a homogeneous product structure.
- Preservation: By stabilizing the pH value, the growth of microorganisms can be inhibited, thereby extending the shelf life of food products.
Safety and Health Assessment
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated E380 and concluded that the substance is considered safe when used as intended within the approved quantities. The amounts of triammonium citrate used in food are generally so small that adverse health effects are not expected in healthy adults.
However, the following groups should exercise caution:
- Individuals with kidney disease: Since ammonium compounds are excreted via the kidneys, impaired kidney function may lead to increased metabolic burden.
- Individuals with liver disease: The liver is involved in processing ammonia; caution is advised in cases of hepatic dysfunction.
- Individuals with known hypersensitivity to citric acid or ammonium compounds.
Labeling and Regulation
In the European Union, E380 must be declared on food ingredient lists either as E380 or as triammonium citrate. Its use is restricted to specific food categories, and maximum permitted levels are defined for each category by regulatory authorities. In other countries such as the United States, the use of triammonium citrate in food is also permitted under certain conditions.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of ammonium citrates (E 380) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 2019.
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives.
- Bauer, K. H. et al.: Textbook of Pharmaceutical Technology. Wissenschaftliche Verlagsgesellschaft Stuttgart, 2017.
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