Potassium Phosphate (E340) – Overview, Uses, Side Effects & More

Additive Summary Potassium Phosphate (E340)
Essence Potassium Phosphate or E340 is a potassium salt of phosphoric acid that gets used in food primarily as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, and emulsifier and that presents itself as a white crystalline powder with no smell and slightly salty taste. There are three different Potassium Phosphates: 1) Monopotassium Phosphate (MKP) or E340(i), Dipotassium Phosphate (DKP) or E340(ii), and Tripotassium Phosphate (TKP) or E340(iii).
Names Potassium Orthophosphate, Potassium Polyphosphate, Potassium Phosphate Dibasic, Potassium Phosphate Tribasic, Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate, Tribasic Potassium Phosphate, Dibasic Potassium Phosphate, Monobasic Potassium Phosphate, Potassium Salt of Orthophosphoric Acid, Potassium Biphosphate, Polyphosphoric Acid Potassium Salt, Tripotassium Hydrogen Phosphate, Dipotassium Hydrogen Phosphate, MKP, DKP, TKP, E340, Potassium Phosphate, and others.
Sourcing  Phosphoric Acid (E338) is the most straightforward starting point. It’s something that’s manufactured either from Phosphate Rock or Elemental Phosphorus.
Manufacturing There are many different ways as to how the additive can be created. That said, the most common one is the sourcing ingredient’s reaction with Potassium Hydroxide or Potassium Carbonate. This creates Potassium Phosphate and water. Depending on the molar ratio and pH of the reaction, it can change what kind of Potassium Phosphate is acquired (mono-, di-, or tri-). To remove water, it has to undergo crystallization and drying. This process can also influence what form of Potassium Phosphate is created.
Application Acidity regulator, stabilizer, flavor enhancer, emulsifier, baking agent, and sequestrant. It is highly soluble in water.
Acceptable Daily Intake None determined.
Side Effects Likely only in excessive amounts, this additive has the potential to cause problems. Meaning, in excessive amounts, it can cause stomach pain, nausea, and other gastrointestinal problems, as well as kidney damage or dysfunction, and may prove to be very harmful to people with pre-existing kidney issues. While allergic reactions are also possible (in the form of hives, swelling, itching, etc.), the most prominent issue might be possible electrolyte balance disruption. This may lead to fatigue, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and even seizures.
Benefits This compound is also used in supplements as the active ingredient for delivering Potassium and Phosphorus to our body. Beyond that, it can help ensure electrolyte balance, improve bone health, boost energy levels and metabolism, and aid with acid-base balance. On top of that, it can potentially enhance cognitive health, kidney function, and even athletic performance, as well as deliver a list of other potential benefits.
Studies 2,765+ studies on Pubmed. More than 55+ studies on safety.
Allergens None.
Diet Restrictions Kosher- and Halal-compatible are something that we can’t be 100% certain about.
Health Knight Assessment Typically Beneficial. | Hence, it’s a Category 0 Additive.
Products Potassium Phosphate (E340) is very commonly found in processed foods. These include desserts, soy milk, instant noodles, soups, bread, energy drinks, ham, coffees, cakes, non-dairy creamers, coconut milk, breakfast cereal, cocoa drinks, sugar-free creamers, premade legume foods, soft drinks, biscuits, oat milk, pea milk, toppings, sausages, coconut milk yogurts, pancakes, sandwiches, porridges, croutons, bolognese sauce, burgers, pastries, Tropezian pies, Black Forest gateau, nut flours, chicken breast fillets, quick soups, puddings, instant coffees, premade turkey foods, instant hot chocolates, steaks, waffles, chocolate drinks, pies, mac and cheese bites, sour cream, sauces, crisps, flavored waters, mashed potatoes, premade rice and pasta foods, salsa, chocolate bars, lasagnas, chocolate bars, baby formulas, and more.

Potassium Phosphate (E340) Side Effects Are Unlikely All Kinds Of Desserts Can Have This Additive

Also Many Pastries Tend To Have This Acidity RegulatorPotassium Orthophosphate Can Be Found With Breakfast Cereal

Leave a Comment