Ingredient · Updated
Sodium Citrate
Found in 45 productsSee all
Branch Basics Bathroom Cleaner Fragrance-Free 
Sunstar GUM Oral B Mouthwash Orange flavor 
Blue Land Dishwasher Detergent Tablets Free & Clear 
Aunt Fannie's Hardwood Floor Cleaner Concentrate 
W3LL People Fresh Dew Snow Mushroom Gel-Cream Moisturizer 
Cadence RACE Energy Hydration Drink 
Instant Holloway Premium Electrolyte Drink Mix Passionfruit Orange Guava 
ECOS Dishwasher Gel Free & Clear What is Sodium Citrate?
Sodium citrate is a salt derived from citric acid that is often used in the food and beverage industry. It is produced by neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide, resulting in a crystalline powder that readily dissolves in water.
This compound is widely used as a buffering agent, acidity regulator, and emulsifier, helping maintain the stability and flavor of products. It is also known for its ability to prevent the curdling of milk in products such as processed cheese. Health-wise, sodium citrate is generally recognized as safe, with no major adverse effects reported at typical consumption levels.
When you see sodium citrate on a label, it often indicates a product engineered for enhanced taste, texture, or shelf stability, common in both food and beverage items.
Commonly found in: processed cheese, carbonated beverages, sports drinks, baked goods, jam, jelly
Sodium citrate is recognized by the FDA as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food products.
Research generally supports its safety in typical food use; however, excessive intake could potentially lead to electrolyte imbalances.
Sodium citrate is not derived from animal sources and is considered suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Food Additive Status List
Scout's take
Sodium citrate is a salt derived from citric acid, commonly used as a water softener in cleaning products. It helps to prevent mineral deposits on dishes and enhances the effectiveness of detergents. It is biodegradable and considered safe for the environment.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with sodium citrate in household cleaning products.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Platinum Performance UltraShine Dishwasher Pacs Lemon Citrus · echoed in 8 other analysesThere are minimal risks associated with sodium citrate, though excessive exposure can cause mild irritation.
from the analysis of ECOS Dishwasher Gel Free & ClearExcessive sodium intake can contribute to hypertension; 500mg is appropriate for athletic hydration.
from the analysis of Cadence RACE Energy Hydration DrinkHigh intake may contribute to sodium overload in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Gatorade Zero GLACIER FREEZE ZERO SUGAR THIRST QUENCHERThere are minimal risks associated with its use in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Truly Free Home Dishwasher Detergent Plastic BagThe case for
Helps stabilize the product and maintain pH balance.
from the analysis of Great Value Original Strawberry Banana · echoed in 2 other analysesIt is effective in softening water and improving cleaning performance without harmful environmental impact.
from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher Tablets · echoed in 1 other analysisIt helps to improve the effectiveness of detergents by softening water.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum Performance · echoed in 1 other analysisSodium citrate is effective in softening water, which improves the performance of detergents and reduces spotting on dishes.
from the analysis of ECOS Dishwasher Gel Free & ClearSupports hydration, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling during intense exercise at athletic-grade dosing.
from the analysis of Cadence RACE Energy Hydration DrinkMore from Scout's analyses
Sodium citrate is a salt of citric acid used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain the stability of the beverage. It is commonly used in food and beverages for its buffering properties.
from the analysis of Bubbl r Lemon Lime Antioxidant Sparkling Water with a Boost of Caffeine CanSodium citrate is used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier in beverages. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain the stability of the product. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.
from the analysis of Rockstar Recovery Orange with Electrolytes Energy Drink CanpH buffer.
from the analysis of SweeTarts RopesAll 45 products with Sodium Citrate
+ 21 more products in the Scout app
Where Sodium Citrate shows up
- Hydration 9 products
- Dishwasher 7 products
- Energy Drinks 4 products
- Candy 4 products
- Surface Cleaners 3 products
- Skin Care 2 products
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