About
Citrus fiber is a plant-derived dietary fiber ingredient obtained from the peels and pulp of citrus fruits (primarily oranges and lemons) through drying, milling, and particle-size classification. It is used in processed foods as a texturizer, moisture-retention agent, and source of dietary fiber.
Safety summary
Citrus fiber is broadly regarded as safe for the general adult population; multiple independent FDA GRAS determinations have been accepted with no objections, and a thorough review of published scientific literature has found no evidence of adverse effects at typical food-use levels. No Acceptable Daily Intake has been formally established, reflecting high regulatory confidence in its safety profile. As a high-fiber ingredient, excessive intake may cause transient gastrointestinal discomfort (bloating, gas) in susceptible individuals.
Regulatory landscape
| Jurisdiction | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand) (Australia) | Approved | Citrus fiber is not listed as a food additive requiring an additive number under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. It is permissible as a food ingredient (dietary fiber from a natural plant source) under Standard 1.3.1; no specific restriction identified.source |
| EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) (European Union) | Approved | Citrus fiber is not assigned an E-number and is not regulated as a food additive under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. It is permissible as a food ingredient (dietary fiber) derived from a natural plant source under general EU food law (Regulation (EC) No 178/2002); no dedicated EFSA food additive safety opinion on citrus fiber has been published. Highly processed preparations may be subject to Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 on a case-by-case basis.source |
| FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) (India) | Approved | Citrus fiber is not specifically enumerated as a food additive in the FSSAI Food Products Standards and Food Additives Regulations 2011. As a dietary fiber derived from a recognized fruit source, it is generally permissible as a food ingredient under the FSS Act 2006; no specific restriction or ban was identified. Products making health claims based on dietary fiber would require prior FSSAI approval under FSS (Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, etc.) Regulations.source |
| FDA (Food and Drug Administration) (United States) |