Origin
E 380 is the salt of citric acid, which is also used as an acidity regulator under the E number 330. Citric acid is a natural substance that is produced in the energy metabolism of every living cell. For use in the food industry, ammonium citrate is obtained by neutralizing ammonia with citric acid. However, genetically modified organisms are often used for the production of E 380 as well. E 380 is a colorless crystalline solid that is easily soluble in water.
Usage
Ammonium citrate is subject to no authorization restrictions or maximum quantity limits and, due to its safety, is approved for a wide range of foods. E 380 can be found in: meat products, jam sugar, marmalade, jelly, preserves, sweets, fruit and vegetable conserves, cut fruits and vegetables, sodas, condensed milk as well as powdered milk.
Risks
Ammonium citrates are completely harmless. Foods to which this additive is added can be consumed without concern. However, mold allergy sufferers should be careful, as genetically modified organisms used in the production of E 380 often involve molds and in such cases, the end product may also cause allergic reactions.