Is Sodium Citrates (E331) Halal?

Sodium citrates are salts of citric acid (E330), which is made by fermenting sugar with a mould. The salt itself contains no animal material, but the fermentation medium and processing aids vary by producer, so MUIS lists it as doubtful, as it does for citric acid. Citrates from the major manufacturers are widely halal-certified.

Sodium citrates are sodium salts of citric acid, used as acidity regulators, emulsifiers and stabilisers. They are produced by neutralising citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate.

• soft drinks
• ice cream
• processed cheese
• jams
• gelatin desserts

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

citric acid (E330), potassium citrates (E332), calcium citrates (E333)

E331 (Sodium Citrates) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Sodium citrates are sodium salts of citric acid, used as acidity regulators, emulsifiers and stabilisers.

Sodium citrates are sodium salts of citric acid, used as acidity regulators, emulsifiers and stabilisers. They are produced by neutralising citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate.

E331 is commonly found in soft drinks, ice cream, processed cheese, jams, and gelatin desserts.