Ingredient
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate
What is Sodium Citrate Dihydrate?
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate is a salt derived from citric acid, commonly available in granular or powder form. It is made by neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate, followed by crystallization to include water molecules in its structure.
It is used in a variety of applications as an emulsifier, acidity regulator, and preservative. In food, it helps stabilize and preserve products, while in industrial and medical contexts, it's used for its chelating and buffering properties. Most studies indicate that sodium citrate dihydrate is safe for general consumption and use within regulated amounts.
When you see sodium citrate dihydrate on a label, it is primarily there to maintain the stability of the product and is generally recognized as safe when following standard usage guidelines.
Commonly found in: processed foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cleaning products, personal care products
Benefits
- Acts as an effective emulsifier and preservative in foods.
- Helps stabilize medicines and other consumables by regulating acidity.
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research supports its safety as a food additive and its efficacy as a stabilizing agent.
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate is not derived from animal products, making it suitable for vegans.
Sources: Food Additive Status List
Scout's take
Sodium citrate dihydrate is used as a water softener and pH regulator in detergents. It enhances the cleaning power by binding with metal ions in water. It is safe and non-toxic, making it a beneficial ingredient.
The case against
The case for
Improves cleaning efficiency by softening water.
from the analysis of Molly's Suds Dishwasher Pods | Natural Dishwasher Detergent Cuts Grease & Rinses Clean (Residue-Free) for Sparkling Dishes | 60 Auto-Release Tabs (Unscented)More from Scout's analyses
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate is considered good because it acts as a preservative and pH stabilizer, ensuring product quality without harmful effects.
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