Tricalcium Citrate
Calcium Tricitrate
- CAS
- 813-94-5
- EC
- 212-391-7
- Food Code
- E333
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Nutraceuticals & Supplements, Pharma & Healthcare
Tricalcium Citrate (CAS 813-94-5) is the Food Grade calcium salt of citric acid, a white, odorless powder that serves as a bioavailable calcium fortification source and as the food additive E333 used in beverages, dairy alternatives, baked goods and pharmaceutical antacids. This Food Grade calcium salt of citric acid is slightly soluble in water yet dissolves readily in acids, and decomposes above 200°C.
It is one of the most bioavailable calcium fortification sources, absorbed efficiently even without gastric acid, which makes it the preferred calcium form in dietary supplements and for sensitive consumer groups.
Food producers use it (E 333) as a firming agent, acidity regulator, and calcium enrichment in dairy alternatives, juices, and bakery products. Produced by neutralizing citric acid with calcium hydroxide or carbonate, it is offered in anhydrous and tetrahydrate forms.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H8O7.3/2Ca |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 498.43 g/mol |
| Appearance | white powder or white to colourless crystals |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. odorless |
| Grades available | Food Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Tricalcium Citrate
Applications
Used as a nutrient supplement in dietary products for calcium fortification; food additive as sequestrant, buffer, antioxidant, firming agent, and acidity regulator in beverages, dairy, and baked goods; in pharmaceuticals for antacids and excipients; in cosmetics as pH adjuster; in animal feed for bone health; in water treatment for softening.
Safety & Risks
Low toxicity, GRAS by FDA; may cause mild eye/skin/respiratory irritation (H315, H319, H335). Avoid breathing dust (P261), use protective gloves/eye gear (P280), rinse if contacted (P302+P352, P305+P351+P338). Stable under ambient conditions; incompatible with strong acids.
Packaging
Typically in 25kg or 50kg multi-wall paper bags with PE liners or fiber drums to prevent moisture; store tightly closed in cool, dry, ventilated areas; non-hazardous for transport.