CAS#: 68-04-2 (sodium citrate dihydrate)
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) numbers are unique identifiers assigned to every chemical substance, ensuring accurate identification across the industry.
What is it?
odium citrate is a naturally derived ingredient commonly found in citrus fruits. It is the sodium salt of citric acid, also known as sour salt. This biodegradable compound is widely used in food, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
What does it do?
Sodium citrate functions as a water softener and pH balancer in our detergent formulations. By binding to minerals in hard water (such as calcium and magnesium), it prevents these minerals from interfering with the cleaning process. This allows our surfactants to work more effectively, resulting in cleaner laundry and reduced detergent residue on fabrics. Sodium citrate also helps maintain the optimal pH level for fabric care, particularly important for delicate protein-based fibers like silk and wool.
How is it made?
Sodium citrate is manufactured through the neutralization of citric acid (typically derived from fermentation of plant-based sugars) with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate, creating the sodium salt form used in cleaning products.
Safety & Certifications
Sodium citrate meets the stringent safety standards required for EPA Safer Choice certification:
- EPA Safer Choice Approved: Pre-approved ingredient meeting EPA's criteria for human health and environmental safety
- FDA GRAS Status: Recognized as "Generally Recognized as Safe" by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food products
- Biodegradable: Breaks down safely in the environment
- EWG Verified: Meets Environmental Working Group's strictest standards for health and transparency
All Heritage Park detergents containing this ingredient are both EPA Safer Choice Certified and EWG VERIFIED®, providing independent, third-party validation of safety.
What product is this ingredient in?
Silk & Wool Detergents:
- Heritage Park Silk & Wool Detergent - Fragrance-Free
- Heritage Park Silk & Wool Detergent - Lavender Mist
- Heritage Park Silk & Wool Detergent - Spring Magnolia
Our Product Stewardship Guidelines direct us to select ingredients that have been manufactured or processed in a manner that supports our philosophy of environmental friendliness.