Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides

Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides (E472c), known as CITREM, are partial citric acid esters of glycerides. They function as antioxidant emulsifiers — combining emulsification with metal chelation to inhibit fat oxidation. They are used in margarine, spreadable fats, processed meat, and certain beverages, where they simultaneously stabilise emulsions and prevent rancidity by binding pro-oxidant metal ions.

JECFA's ADI is "not specified," evaluated in 1973. CITREM is hydrolysed in the gut to citric acid, glycerol, and fatty acids — all normal dietary and metabolic components. Citric acid enters the Krebs cycle directly. No adverse effects have been identified at any realistic dietary exposure.

Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides are approved in the EU, US (GRAS), UK, and globally. They appear in margarines, reduced-fat spreads, processed meats, and ice cream. The dual antioxidant-emulsifier function makes CITREM particularly valued in fat-containing products with extended shelf life requirements. For the general population there are no health concerns, and the antioxidant contribution may be considered beneficial by reducing oxidative deterioration of food fats.