Trisodium citrate

What is Trisodium Citrate?

Trisodium Citrate, also known by the trade name Citrosodine, is a chemical compound represented by the formula Na۳C۶H۵O۷. This substance is available as a white powder or granulated crystals. It is essentially the trisodium salt of citric acid and possesses a slightly salty and faintly tart flavor. Trisodium citrate is naturally found in fruits such as citrus and various berries.

 

Different Forms of Sodium Citrate in the Market

The chemical composition of trisodium citrate powder is available in two main hydrated forms: Trisodium Citrate Dihydrate and Trisodium Citrate Monohydrate. Both forms are widely utilized in various industries, including as an additive in food products, pharmaceuticals, and detergents.

Trisodium Citrate Dihydrate often functions as a moisture-retaining agent (humectant) in dry food products like various types of bread, cakes, and cookies. Furthermore, it is used in the pharmaceutical industry to control acidity and as an emulsifying agent. Similarly, Trisodium Citrate Monohydrate, in addition to similar food applications (such as moisture retention), plays a significant role in the formulation of detergents and hygiene products; in these products, it acts as a softening agent and a pH level controller. Overall, the main difference between the two types lies in the number of water of crystallization molecules, but both are effective additives used across a wide range of industries.

 

Physical and Chemical Properties of Trisodium Citrate

Trisodium Citrate is known by the chemical formula Na۳C۶H۵O۷ and is registered as a food additive with the code E331. The physical appearance of this compound is a white crystalline powder. This salt has two main forms: the anhydrous (dry) form, with a molecular weight of 258.06 g/mol, and the dihydrate (hydrated) form, with a molecular weight of 294.10 g/mol. The density of the substance has been measured at 1.7 g/ml. Thermally, trisodium citrate shows relative stability, but its melting point is below 300ºC. Furthermore, before reaching its boiling point, this material decomposes and degrades at a temperature higher than its melting point. The CAS number for this compound is 68-04-2.

 

Method of Trisodium Citrate Preparation

The production of trisodium citrate begins with the neutralization of pure citric acid. Following the purification and crystallization processes of citric acid, this acid is reacted with a high-purity sodium source, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or sodium carbonate (Na_2CO_3). This neutralization reaction leads to the formation of trisodium citrate, which is then re-hydrated to obtain the hydrated form (usually dihydrate).

Conversely, the anhydrous form of this substance is prepared by removing water molecules from trisodium citrate dihydrate. This process is carried out in such a way that the material's original crystal structure is not destroyed. Anhydrous trisodium citrate is added to the composition of moisture-sensitive products like powders, tablets, and detergents to increase the final product's shelf life, owing to its ability to absorb excess water. In terms of solubility, the material has very high solubility in water but is insoluble in ethanol.

 

Types of Sodium Citrate Applications

Here, we will review the main applications of this compound across different industries:

In the Food and Beverage Industry

The food-grade version of this material is widely used as an approved additive due to its high stability and regulatory body approval. Its primary function is to act as a buffer to control and regulate the pH level, and it also serves as a preservative. Trisodium citrate imparts a pleasant tart flavor to products and is used in items such as ice cream, jelly, jams, powdered milk, and various beverages. For instance, in cheese production, it prevents fat separation and contributes to the quality of the cheese texture; and in yogurt, along with citric acid, it creates a mild and pleasant tartness.

Therapeutic and Laboratory Applications

One of the most important uses of this compound is its anticoagulant property in blood banks and laboratories. By chelating calcium ions in the blood, this substance stops the clotting mechanism and acts as a safer alternative to drugs like heparin. In the therapeutic field, it is prescribed for kidney patients to reduce acidosis and alleviate pain in urinary tract infections.

In Personal Care and Cosmetic Products

In the manufacture of cosmetic and personal care products, trisodium citrate is considered a safe substance and is added to formulations for the precise adjustment of acidity (pH) and the stabilization of emulsions. Its use in products like shampoos, creams, and hygiene powders, by regulating the pH, helps maintain the natural health barrier of the skin and prevents damage to the skin's defensive layer and the elimination of its beneficial bacteria.

Industrial Descaling

This substance is also used in industrial settings. Due to its ability to remove carbonate deposits that form in boilers, sodium citrate is used as an efficient descaling agent to maintain efficiency and prevent a reduction in equipment performance.

 

Advantages of Trisodium Citrate

In the food industry, trisodium citrate, in addition to its role as a buffer (pH regulator), acts as a chelating agent; meaning it can bind to metal ions present in the solution. This property is particularly important in products like cheese. In cheese, the compound binds to the calcium ions that maintain the protein structure. The binding of trisodium citrate causes the protein structure to change, exposing its hydrophilic and lipophilic ends more, which consequently aids in better fat emulsification and improved cheese melting.

Furthermore, the chelating ability of this material plays a crucial role in gelling processes. In some cases, the presence of calcium ions can prevent the proper hydration of hydrocolloids, which is essential for gel formation. By binding to these calcium ions, trisodium citrate prevents the formation of thin calcium layers that inhibit proper hydration, thereby preventing premature gelling. Additionally, its ability to slightly increase the pH level can be beneficial in specific processes such as spherification.

 

Precautions in Trisodium Citrate Consumption

Trisodium citrate is generally recognized as a safe and secure additive in various products. However, in some cases, the consumption of this compound may lead to adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. Reported side effects may include hypotension, headaches, reduced blood sugar levels, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as stomach irritation and diarrhea. Skin sensitivities may also occur. In conditions of excessive consumption beyond recommended doses, more serious risks such as heavy metal poisoning (if contaminated) and neurological disorders like restlessness and dizziness may occur. Therefore, it is emphasized that the consumption of this material must strictly follow recommended guidelines, and in case any undesirable symptoms are observed after consumption, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

 

Purchasing Trisodium Citrate from Persia Kamandar Paitakht Company

To source high-quality trisodium citrate that complies with pharmaceutical and food standards, you can contact Persia Kamandar Paitakht Trading Company as one of the trusted suppliers of chemical and industrial raw materials. By offering this compound in various anhydrous and dihydrate grades, the company meets the needs of diverse industries, including food product manufacturers (as a buffer and emulsifier), the pharmaceutical industry (as an anticoagulant), and cosmetic and personal care product manufacturers. Purchasing from this trading group guarantees access to a product with high purity, reliable delivery, and specialized technical support to ensure the purchased product conforms to your production processes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutes for Trisodium Citrate

Substitutes for trisodium citrate include sodium phosphate, EDTA, and sodium lactate, which possess similar chelating properties. Sodium phosphate is cheaper but polluting; EDTA is more stable but toxic. Lactate is suitable for food applications. The choice depends on the cost and the specific environment.

How to Store Trisodium Citrate?

The storage of trisodium citrate involves storing it in sealed containers, in a dry environment with humidity below 50%, and at a temperature of $15^\circ \text{C}$ to $25^\circ \text{C}$. It should be kept away from direct light and acidic substances. The shelf life is 2 years, and this storage prevents caking.

Side Effects and Risks of Using Trisodium Citrate

Side effects and risks of using trisodium citrate include bloating, diarrhea at high doses, and skin sensitivity. In kidney patients, it can cause hypernatremia. Inhalation of the dust causes