E345 – Magnesium Citrate

E345 is a magnesium salt of citric acid. It functions primarily as an acidity regulator in various food products. Magnesium Citrate is generally recognized as safe for consumption within regulated limits. However, excessive intake may pose health concerns, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions. 

Danger Level: 1 (Safe with Minimal Risks)

Purpose in Products

Magnesium Citrate serves multiple functions in the food industry:

  • Acidity Regulation: Maintains desired pH levels in foods and beverages, ensuring product stability and taste consistency.
  • Magnesium Fortification: Enhances the nutritional value of food products by increasing magnesium content.

Common applications include:

  • Fortified Foods: Adds magnesium to products like cereals and dietary supplements.
  • Beverages: Regulates acidity in drinks such as fruit juices and carbonated beverages.
  • Dairy Products: Maintains stability and texture in items like yogurt and cheese.

Health Considerations

While Magnesium Citrate is generally safe for consumption, certain considerations include:

  • Laxative Effect: In medicinal doses, Magnesium Citrate is used as a saline laxative. Excessive consumption through fortified foods may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea.
  • Magnesium Overload: High intake may result in hypermagnesemia, especially in individuals with compromised kidney function.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluates the safety of food additives and establishes acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels to ensure consumer safety. 

Impact on Children

Magnesium Citrate is safe for children when consumed within recommended dietary limits. However, moderation is advised to prevent potential health concerns related to excessive magnesium intake, which may affect gastrointestinal health.

Impact on Taste

Magnesium Citrate has minimal impact on the taste of food products, as it is used primarily to regulate acidity without imparting a distinct flavor.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Magnesium Citrate is compatible with various food additives and ingredients, making it versatile in food processing. It can be used alongside other acidity regulators, stabilizers, and preservatives to achieve desired product qualities.

Natural Occurrence

Magnesium Citrate does not occur naturally in foods but is synthesized for use in food processing to achieve specific functional properties.

Alternatives and Substitutes

Alternatives to Magnesium Citrate include other acidity regulators and magnesium sources, such as:

  • Magnesium Phosphates (E343): Serve similar functions with phosphate instead of citrate.
  • Citric Acid (E330): A common acidity regulator and flavoring agent.
  • Magnesium Oxide: Used as a magnesium supplement in fortified foods.

The choice of alternative depends on the specific application and desired properties of the food product.

Regulation

Magnesium Citrate (E345) is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including those in the European Union. Regulatory agencies have established acceptable daily intake levels to ensure consumer safety. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluates the safety of food additives and assigns E numbers to authorized substances. 

Conclusion

E345 (Magnesium Citrate) is a versatile food additive employed as an acidity regulator and magnesium fortification agent in various products. When used within regulatory guidelines, it is generally safe for consumption, contributing to product quality and nutritional value. However, excessive intake may pose health concerns, particularly for individuals with kidney disorders or those at risk of magnesium imbalances. Moderation and awareness of dietary sources are key to maintaining a balanced intake.