Potassium Phosphates E340
buffering agent, emulsifier, stabilizer — Primarily synthetic.
Monopotassium phosphate (E340i), Dipotassium phosphate (E340ii), Tripotassium phosphate (E340iii)
CAS: 7778-77-0 (i), 7758-11-4 (ii), 7778-53-2 (iii)
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Potassium Phosphates?
Potassium phosphates (mono-, di-, and tripotassium phosphate) function as acidity regulators, buffering agents, and emulsifying salts in food products. They are used in instant beverage mixes, processed cheeses, and baked goods as alternatives to sodium phosphates in reduced-sodium formulations. JECFA's group ADI of 70 mg/kg body weight (as phosphorus) applies to all phosphate salts. EFSA's 2019 reassessment raised concerns about cumulative phosphate intake from multiple dietary sources. Potassium phosphates are widely approved globally.
? Did You Know?
Beyond food, Potassium Phosphates is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Regulatory Analysis
Potassium phosphates (E340) are evaluated as part of the phosphate additive group alongside E338, E339, E450, E451, and E452. EFSA's landmark 2019 group reassessment applied equally to all of these additives, reducing the group ADI from JECFA's 70 mg/kg body weight to 40 mg/kg body weight (as phosphorus). Potassium phosphates occupy a specific niche as reduced-sodium alternatives to sodium phosphates, making them significant in product reformulation for sodium reduction targets — a policy priority in the EU, UK, and other jurisdictions. This dual role (phosphate additive and sodium-reduction tool) complicates regulatory action: restricting potassium phosphates to address dietary phosphorus concerns would partially offset progress on sodium reduction goals. The 2019 EFSA opinion acknowledged this intersection without resolving the tension, leaving it to the European Commission to balance the competing nutritional policy objectives.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Quantum satis in many categories; specific limits in others due to concerns about total dietary phosphate intake.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Often used as a reduced-sodium alternative to sodium phosphates
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Produced by neutralizing phosphoric acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate. The degree of neutralization determines which form is produced: monopotassium phosphate (E340i, KH2PO4), dipotassium phosphate (E340ii, K2HPO4), or tripotassium phosphate (E340iii, K3PO4). Each form has different pH and buffering properties.
Applications Beyond Food
Buffering agent in personal care formulations.
Buffering agent, electrolyte replenisher, urinary acidifier (monopotassium phosphate).
Fertilizers (especially monopotassium phosphate), detergents, water treatment.
Some cleaning products and water softeners.