Comparing E333III - Tricalcium citrate vs E1521 - Polyethylene glycol

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Overview

E333III - Tricalcium citrate

Tricalcium citrate (E333III) is a calcium salt of citric acid used to keep foods stable and to bind metal ions that could spoil taste or color. It also serves as a source of calcium in fortified foods and drinks. You might see it on labels as “tricalcium citrate,” “calcium citrate,” or simply “E333.”

E1521 - Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a smooth, water‑soluble polymer used in small amounts to coat, carry, or dissolve other ingredients. In food, it appears as E1521 and helps give tablets and dragees a clean, glossy finish while keeping moisture under control. Regulators in the EU allow it for defined uses and set strict purity rules.

Synonyms

E333iii

Tricalcium citrate

E1521

Polyethylene glycol

Functions

acidity regulator sequestrant stabilizer

carrier glazing agent

Origins

Microbiological

Synthetic

Products

Found in 4 products

Found in 163 products

Search rank & volume

#357300 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#4467K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×5.43

over-aware

×58.32

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

Is tricalcium phosphate the same as calcium citrate?
No—tricalcium phosphate (E341iii) and tricalcium citrate (E333iii) are different calcium salts; citrate is more soluble and mainly used as a sequestrant/stabilizer and calcium fortificant, while phosphate is often an anti-caking agent and fortificant.
Is tricalcium citrate bad for you?
No—tricalcium citrate (E333iii) is approved in the EU and generally recognized as safe in the U.S. at typical food levels; excessive calcium from any source can cause GI discomfort or contribute to kidney stones in susceptible people.
What is tricalcium citrate used for?
It’s used as a sequestrant and stabilizer to control acidity and bind metal ions, helping preserve color and texture, and it’s also used to fortify foods and supplements with calcium.
Which is better calcium citrate vs tricalcium phosphate?
For calcium supplementation/absorption, calcium citrate is often preferred because it’s more soluble and can be taken with or without food; tricalcium phosphate is less soluble but useful in foods as an anti-caking agent and when added phosphorus is desired.
Which is easier to absorb tricalcium pjosphatw or calcium citrate?
Calcium citrate is generally easier to absorb than tricalcium phosphate, especially on an empty stomach; phosphate salts are better absorbed when taken with meals.