68.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
solvent · plasticizer · emulsifier · flavoring agent
Triethyl Citrate
Also known as: Citrate Triethyl Ester, Triethyl 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
Molecular Formula
C12H20O7
Molecular Weight
276.28 g/mol
Category
food
Bottom Line: Triethyl Citrate is generally considered safe for use in food and cosmetics, though individual sensitivities may vary.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in concentrations below 10%
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
- consumed as part of a balanced diet
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using other topical products
- you have a history of respiratory issues
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to citrates
- you have a known sensitivity to similar compounds
- you are using it in high concentrations
- you experience irritation upon use
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C12H20O7 |
| Molecular Weight | 276.28 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -55.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 294.0°C |
| Solubility | slightly soluble in water; miscible with alcohol and ether |
| Density | 1.1369 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 0.1 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, hair sprays. Generally safe for topical use; patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, food preservatives. Considered safe for consumption in regulated amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, oral formulations. Used in formulations; follow dosage guidelines.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutritional powders. Generally safe in recommended doses; consult a doctor.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Triethyl Citrate is generally well tolerated on skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion of Triethyl Citrate is typically safe in food applications, but excessive amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure is generally low risk, but high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with Triethyl Citrate may cause mild irritation; flushing with water is recommended.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children may have heightened sensitivity to skin and oral exposure.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy necessitates caution.
- sensitive_skin — Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated in adults for cosmetic and food use.
- elderly — Elderly individuals generally tolerate Triethyl Citrate without issues.
- breastfeeding — Considered safe for use during breastfeeding with caution.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically tolerate Triethyl Citrate well in cosmetic and food products. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on long-term effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive; use in moderation. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Generally considered safe, but limited data exists. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals typically tolerate Triethyl Citrate well. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Triethyl Citrate is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and good safety margins.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | non-sensitizing | Human patch test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Triethyl Citrate is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and good safety margins.
- Low acute toxicity and irritation potential.
- Widely used in food and cosmetic formulations.
- Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Triethyl Citrate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Triethyl Citrate is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Triethyl Citrate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Triethyl Citrate is safe for use as a food additive within specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Triethyl Citrate is permitted for use in food applications.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Triethyl Citrate is permitted for use in food and cosmetics across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is generally safe for topical application, but patch testing is recommended.
Yes, it is considered safe for consumption in regulated amounts as a food additive.
While generally safe, some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-20T02:03:37.442831Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.