Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides (CITREM, E472c) and hydrogenated derivatives are EFSA- and FDA-evaluated emulsifiers with no specified ADI. Concern is moderate because fully hydrogenated palm fat contributes saturated fat; the additive itself is well-tolerated, but partial hydrogenation (which would create trans fats) is not used here.
What it is
Citrate esters of hydrogenated palm-oil glycerides; emulsifier and antioxidant synergist (chelator).
Emulsifier and metal-chelating antioxidant synergist in fats and oils.
Why it's flagged
- Saturated fat content (palm hydrogenated)
- Possible GI tolerance at high intake
What regulators actually say
"The Panel concluded that there was no safety concern from the use of CITREM (E 472c) at the reported uses and use levels."
"Stearyl citrate may be safely used in food in accordance with prescribed conditions ... [and citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides regulated similarly]."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides permitted under 21 CFR 172.832 / GRAS uses in fat formulations.
European Union — EFSA
EFSA re-evaluated CITREM (E472c) in 2020; ADI 'not specified.' Hydrogenated derivatives covered under analogous mono/diglyceride frameworks.
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