Food Additives Encyclopedia

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triphosphates ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nametriphosphates
English nametriphosphates
INS/E numberINS 451
Functional classMineral salt, Emulsifier
Year adopted1964
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Triphosphates (tripolyphosphates), mainly sodium and potassium tripolyphosphate, are moisture retainers, emulsifying salts and quality improvers. They have strong metal-chelating ability and are used with diphosphates and polyphosphates for water retention and tenderisation in meat and seafood.

Source ​

Industrial：由正磷酸盐脱水缩合生成三聚磷酸盐，再中和、结晶、干燥

Why is it used? ​

  • Improves water-holding, tenderness and yield of meat and seafood
  • Stabilises proteins in processed cheese as emulsifying salt
  • Chelates metal ions to prevent discolouration and oxidation
  • Reduces drip loss in frozen seafood

Common Foods ​

  • Sausages
  • Frozen shrimp
  • Processed cheese
  • Surimi products
  • Frozen prepared foods
  • Poultry products

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-70 mg/kg bw (as phosphorus, for phosphates group)

Concerns：

  • 高磷摄入可能影响钙磷平衡及肾功能
  • 需控制总磷酸盐摄入量

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 451)
  • FDA 21 CFR 182.6760 (sodium tripolyphosphate)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 451)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (451)
  • JECFA Monograph (1964)

In a nutshell ​

Triphosphates are strongly chelating phosphates used for water retention, tenderisation and quality improvement in meat and seafood.

Consumer Advice ​

Triphosphates (e.g. sodium tripolyphosphate) are phosphate salts used mainly as water-retention agents in frozen shrimp, fish fillets, meat products and prepared foods, helping them absorb and hold water for a juicier texture and higher yield. They are safe at approved levels but raise phosphorus intake, so people with kidney disease or on a phosphorus-restricted diet should limit these processed foods.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.