Sodium citrate is a salt of citric acid and is often used as a food additive to regulate acidity and act as a preservative. In protein powders, sodium citrate may be added to help regulate the pH of the product, to prevent spoilage and to improve texture.
Sodium citrate is also used in the medical field as an anticoagulant, meaning it prevents blood from clotting. It is commonly used in blood transfusions and kidney dialysis.
While sodium citrate is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, excessive consumption of it can lead to adverse effects.