Triethyl citrate
Learn what Triethyl citrate (E1505) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Triethyl citrate?
Food additive with the role of stabilizer, anti-foaming agent, sequestering agent, and flavor carrier. It is obtained from citric acid, being an oily, odorless, and colorless liquid, used for stabilizing egg white foam in the amount specified in the recipe and as a solvent for flavors. In ready-to-eat foods, no more than 3g/kg is allowed, and in beverages, no more than 1g/l is allowed.
Why is Triethyl citrate added to food?
Triethyl citrate (E1505) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Fine pastries.
Permitted quantity: The maximum acceptable daily intake is up to 10mg/kg body weight.
Is Triethyl citrate safe?
Low concern
Prolonged consumption and high doses may cause dizziness, weakness, loss of balance, and even liver damage.
Is Triethyl citrate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Triethyl citrate okay for kids?
This additive is not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Triethyl citrate
- Fine pastries
How to spot Triethyl citrate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E1505
- Triethyl citrate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- triethyl eitrate
- triethyl citrate
- triethyl citrdte
- triethyl cltrate
- trlethyl citrate
Better alternatives
• It may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to esters or chemicals in its composition. • Excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects on the digestive system, including nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. • People with liver or kidney conditions should avoid consuming it in large quantities, as triethyl citrate can put additional pressure on the liver and kidneys.
Also known as
- triethyl eitrate
- triethyl citrate
- triethyl citrdte
- triethyl cltrate
- trlethyl citrate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Triethyl citrate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E1505 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Triethyl citrate
- Is Triethyl citrate safe to eat?
- Prolonged consumption and high doses may cause dizziness, weakness, loss of balance, and even liver damage.
- Is Triethyl citrate banned anywhere?
- Triethyl citrate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Triethyl citrate safe for children?
- This additive is not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Triethyl citrate on a food label?
- Look for E1505, Triethyl citrate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: triethyl eitrate, triethyl citrate, triethyl citrdte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.