Allervibe
E341
Monocalcium phosphate
A calcium salt of phosphoric acid used mainly as the acid component of baking powder, and as a firming agent and calcium source.
i Additive Details
| Is E341 Monocalcium phosphate safe?
People with chronic kidney disease are advised to limit phosphate additives. Inorganic phosphate added to food is absorbed almost completely, while the phosphorus naturally bound in meat, dairy and grains is absorbed far less efficiently, so additives raise blood phosphate out of proportion to the amount listed on a label. It contributes calcium as well as phosphorus, which is worth noting for anyone already taking calcium supplements or advised to limit calcium because of kidney stones.
| Uses
Reacts with sodium bicarbonate in baking powder and self-raising flour to release carbon dioxide and lift the dough; the plain grade reacts quickly in the cold, while a coated grade holds part of the reaction back until the oven. Also firms canned fruit and vegetables, fortifies flour and breakfast cereals with calcium, and, as tricalcium phosphate, keeps powdered foods and grated cheese free-flowing. The E341 listing covers mono-, di- and tricalcium phosphate.
| Interactions
Its raising power depends on being matched to the right amount of sodium bicarbonate; too little bicarbonate leaves a sour taste, too much leaves a soapy one. Calcium released from it can modestly reduce the absorption of iron and zinc eaten in the same meal.
| Origin
Made by reacting purified phosphoric acid with a calcium source such as calcium hydroxide or limestone, then drying the salt. Calcium phosphates also occur naturally as the mineral framework of bone and teeth and as the main constituent of phosphate rock.
| Daily Intake
EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation set a single group ADI of 40 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, expressed as phosphorus, covering all phosphate additives (E 338-341, E 343 and E 450-452) together rather than each salt separately. EFSA concluded that this group ADI is exceeded by some population groups, in particular children and adolescents at average consumption and high consumers in all age groups.
Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related additives
- E332 Potassium citrates The potassium salts of citric acid, used to regulate acidity and bind metal ions.
- E334 L(+)-tartaric acid The natural acid of grapes, used to add sourness and as the acid in baking powder.
- E575 Glucono-delta-lactone A mild acid formed from glucose that slowly turns into gluconic acid once it meets water.
- E338 Phosphoric acid A strong mineral acid used to acidify soft drinks and adjust the pH of processed foods; it gives cola its sharp bite.
- E339 Monosodium phosphate A sodium salt of phosphoric acid used as a buffer, emulsifying salt and moisture binder in processed foods.
- E340 Monopotassium phosphate A potassium salt of phosphoric acid used as a buffer and mineral salt, notably in drinks and creamers.
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