Potassium citrates (E332)

They belong to the group of food additives. It is a strong antioxidant element, an antioxidant compound, a powerful regulator of the acid state of the environment. It is considered a non-hazardous element that is allowed in almost every country on the planet. After all, when adding it to food, adverse and allergic reactions are not observed. Therefore, the level of danger of the connection is defined as the minimum possible.

Overview

The compound is often referred to as monopotassium citrate. This is a popular element, often used in food production. Its main role is the regulation of the acidic state of products. It acts as a powerful emulsifying compound, a universal plan stabilizer, and a product color fixer. It is often additionally used as an emulsifying salt, a synergist of a number of antioxidant elements.

Registration of the connection in the international arena occurs under the code E332. Synonymous names of the element in the world market: E-332, Potassium citrates, monopotassium citrate. Chemically, salt looks like this: K3C6H5O7.

Features of physical characteristics

The compound has a crystalline structure, friable form, whitish color. The taste of the element is pronounced sour. Differs in unique solubility in the water environment, in alcohols solubility is sharply limited. There is no smell at all. The substance content is at least 99%. It behaves inertly in relation to other organic solvents.

Obtaining

The compound belongs entirely to artificial, synthetically obtained. Synthesis takes place in a laboratory with the availability of appropriate equipment and specific reagents, reagents and catalysts. The element is directly obtained by the interaction of citric acid and potassium molecules. As a result of such a simple reaction, an element with incredible durability is obtained.

Such a chloride compound does not occur in nature.

Features of packaging, transportation

The compound is produced by powerful corporations on many continents. Packed in the following containers:

  • bag products marked 30090;
  • paper structures with coding 53361 (products with or without impregnation);
  • corrugated products (code 13512).

Each package contains a safety film insert. There is a mandatory marking “Keep away from moisture.” Packing is done in tightly sealed containers. The substance is transported by any transport, but only in covered facilities. The element is non-toxic, completely safe. Store it in closed packages. It is extremely important to prevent moisture from entering. Warranty period of storage – 1 year. The expiration date is not limited.

Application

Popularity determines its prevalence. The element is successfully used as a full-fledged seasoning, and as a component of complex food additives.

Many products contain the element as a powerful stabilizer. We are talking about jam products, marmalade products (10 g). It is a unique retardant – it stops gelation in gelatin. Necessarily present in juices, nectars and compotes. It is possible to find an element in pastries, desserts. There is a connection in conservation and sauce products.

A representative of several modified potassium citrates has also found its application. It is used in dairy products to prevent sourness. That is, the presence of the labeling of this preservative is a clear guarantee that the product does not contain harmful elements.

The citric acid element is found in milk, which is heated for a long time. This results in strong thermal stability. The unique abilities of the element have found a place in the production of meat products, fish and seafood, dry dairy products and condensed milk.

The element is used in the creation of processed cheeses. The preservative showed itself well during storage: it prolongs the shelf life of products, gives the desired viscosity and elasticity, and a pleasant aftertaste. E 332 in minimum dosages is acceptable in complementary foods for healthy youngest babies. Today there is clear permission to use the element in 9 major product standards.

Citrates are no less in demand in medical terms. They are successfully prescribed for a number of ailments and lesions. We are talking about cystitis (drugs of this plan minimize soreness, inflammatory changes), intestinal lesions, staphylococcal ailments. E 332 often acts as an independent medicine to compensate for the lack of potassium.

The compound has a unique ability to block nerve structures in the periphery. This quality is successfully used to create therapeutic pastes for sensitive teeth. In cosmetology, E 332 is a neutral base for shampoos, transparent soaps.

As a full-fledged alternative, compounds of a similar plan are applicable in the manufacture of paper, various fertilizer elements, as part of reagents, and in the development of color films.

Features of the effect on the body

The element is very well and rapidly absorbed when it enters the body. Removal occurs easily with the help of appropriate systems. The compound is devoid of even minimal toxicity.

Harmfulness

This is a purely synthetic element, but this does not prevent him from remaining extremely useful. According to the latest data, adverse effects have not yet been identified. Problems, on the contrary, occur when there is a deficiency of the potassium element in the body. Patients complain of muscle discomfort, weakness and malaise, arrhythmia, and a drop in immune defenses.

According to recent studies, it has been proven that the minimum dosages of citrate effectively expand the vessels of the heart, the maximum ones narrow them. Like others, E332 has a moderate diuretic effect.

Benefit

Ions are involved in many processes. The element is rightfully considered a direct supplier, a potassium donor, which is quickly absorbed.

Законодательство

Preservative E 332, according to the laws of all countries of the world, is approved for use in food production, including in Ukraine and the Russian Federation.

Its safe normalizing dosages have been established, which are up to 40 g per kg of human body weight.

That is, the production and use of the element is allowed worldwide. It is completely safe, so it is calmly applicable to all sectors of the economy.

Properties and technological features of E332

The compound acts as an acidity regulator. That is, it establishes and maintains the desired pH concentration in the product. The addition of acids lowers the pH, and this has a beneficial effect on the quality of the finished product.

The emulsifying quality is related to the ability of a given surfactant to mix normally immiscible compounds. As a stabilizer, this additive mainly forms and maintains the consistency, texture and shape of the finished product.

The element is a complete antioxidant that slows down oxidation. Due to this, the shelf life of finished products is significantly increased.

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