International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 384
Food additives Europe numbers:E384
Isopropyl citrate is a food excipient with multiple functionalities, making it a valuable tool in food processing. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:
- Chemical Composition: It's a mixture of mono-, di-, and triisopropyl esters of citric acid, derived from reacting citric acid with isopropyl alcohol.
- Functions: Isopropyl citrate acts as several beneficial agents in food:
- Antioxidant: It helps prevent spoilage by reacting with metal ions that can accelerate oxidation and lead to rancidity in fats and oils.
- Chelating Agent: It binds to and removes unwanted metal ions that might affect taste, color, or stability of the food.
- Acidity Regulator: It can slightly adjust or maintain the acidity level of food products.
- Flavor Enhancer: In some cases, it might contribute to or enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food with good manufacturing practices.
- Regulation: Permitted for use in the US, but some regions like the European Union have not approved it as a food additive.
- Applications: Commonly found in vegetable oils, fried foods, and some baked goods to improve shelf life, maintain color and flavor, and potentially enhance taste.
Additional points to consider:
- Isopropyl citrate is a colorless syrup that becomes a solid upon storage.
- It's generally used in small quantities based on specific needs of the food product.