E-number database
Citric acid and citrate salts
Citric acid and potassium/calcium/ammonium citrates share a fermentation identity. Sodium citrate (E331) has its own high-intent page because shoppers search it on its own.
- E330 INS 330 E330 (Citric acid) and citrates E332, E333, E380 Source-dependent Halal Citric acid is fermented from plant sugars, and the citrates E332, E333 and E380 inherit that identity. No animal input in food-grade production. microbialHalal plantHalal
- E331 INS 331 Sodium citrates Source-dependent Halal Sodium citrates (E331, INS 331, or acidity regulator 331 on labels) are acidity regulators and sequestrants made from citric acid and sodium salts. microbialHalal plantHalal syntheticHalal
How they differ
Citric acid (E330) is the sour taste in soft drinks, sweets and jams, and the most used acid in food. It is made by fermenting sugar or starch with a mould, Aspergillus niger, not squeezed from lemons. Sodium, potassium, calcium and ammonium citrates (E331, E332, E333, E380) are made from it.
There is no animal step anywhere in the process, so the whole family is Halal. The word “citrate” on a medicine or supplement can also mean a mineral salt, such as magnesium citrate, which is Halal for the same reason.
On the label
- “Acid (citric acid)”, “acidity regulator (sodium citrate)” and E330–E333 are this family.
- Citric acid in a fizzy drink says nothing about its flavourings or colours; read those too.
- Sodium citrate (E331) has its own page because people search it on its own.
Frequently asked questions
Is citric acid Halal?
Yes. It is made by fermenting plant sugars with a mould, with no animal or alcohol input.
Is citric acid made with alcohol?
No. It is a fermentation, but the product is citric acid, not ethanol.