Potassium citrate is manufactured by the complete neutralization of citric acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate, followed by crystallization and drying. The product is available as an anhydrous or monohydrate form and appears as a white, granular, slightly hygroscopic powder with a saline, mildly alkaline taste.
It provides approximately 38% potassium on an anhydrous basis and functions as an effective pH buffer that maintains stable acidity in food systems. Potassium citrate is highly soluble in water and demonstrates excellent chelating properties for metal ions. The ingredient serves multiple functions simultaneously as a potassium source for nutritional fortification, an acidity regulator for pH control, and an emulsifying salt for protein stabilization.
