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E451Caution

Triphosphates

Group: Acidity regulators

Harm level3 of 5In moderation

In plain words

Triphosphates are phosphate salts that regulate acidity, bind water and help with raising. You mainly find them in ham, sausages, frozen fish and seafood, where they add weight through bound water.

Where you find it: cured meats, processed cheese, frozen fish, prawns

Our recommendation

Limit them, especially in processed meat and drinks; avoid them if you have kidney disease.

Possible risks and effects

  • High phosphorus intake burdens the kidneys and may adversely affect bones and blood vessels
  • People with kidney disease should avoid them
  • Children can easily exceed the safe intake

For experts

Sodium and potassium salts of triphosphoric acid; water binders and stabilisers, mainly in meat and fish products. In 2019 EFSA re-evaluated phosphates (including E450–E452) and set a group ADI of 40 mg/kg bw/day expressed as phosphorus, noting that some groups, including children, may exceed it. Additive phosphorus is almost fully absorbed, unlike natural plant phosphorus, and this ADI does not apply to people with moderate to severe kidney disease.

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This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.