MONOSODIUM CITRATE Meaning and
Definition
-
Monosodium citrate is a chemical compound that falls under the category of citrates, which are salts or esters of citric acid. It is composed of citric acid, a naturally occurring organic acid, and sodium, a metallic element. Monosodium citrate is commonly used as an additive in the food and beverage industry for various purposes.
As a food additive, monosodium citrate serves multiple functions. It is employed as an acidity regulator, helping to control and stabilize the pH levels of food and drink products. This function is particularly useful in acidic foods and beverages to maintain the desired level of tartness and sourness. Additionally, monosodium citrate acts as an emulsifier, promoting the uniform dispersion of ingredients that would normally separate, such as oil and water. It also functions as a flavor enhancer and a preservative, enhancing taste profiles and extending the shelf life of processed food and beverages.
Its extensive usage as an additive is due to its non-toxic nature, low cost, and ability to enhance both the sensory aspects and shelf stability of food products. Monosodium citrate is often found in carbonated drinks, jams, dairy products, fruit-based products, processed meats, baked goods, and processed cheeses.
In summary, monosodium citrate is a chemical compound derived from citric acid and sodium, commonly employed as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, flavor enhancer, and preservative in the food and beverage industry.
Etymology of MONOSODIUM CITRATE
The word "monosodium citrate" has its etymology as follows:
1. Mono-: Derived from the Greek word "monos", meaning "single" or "one".
2. Sodium: Refers to the chemical element symbol "Na", derived from the Latin word "natrium", which was used for sodium carbonate in ancient times.
3. Citrate: Derived from the Latin word "citrus", which means "citron" or "lemon". It refers to a salt or ester of citric acid, often found in citrus fruits.
When combined, "monosodium citrate" describes a compound made up of a single sodium ion (Na+) and a citrate ion, derived from citric acid.
