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E341 Calcium phosphates

E341 (i) Calcium dihydrogen phosphate
E341 (ii) Calcium hydrogen phosphate
E341 (iii) Tricalcium phosphate

Origin:
Calcium salts of phosphoric acid. Normal constituent of the body. Commercially produced from phosphoric acid, which is produced from phosphate mined in the US.

Function & characteristics:
Calcium phosphate is an acidity regulator, used in baking powder and acts as a bread enhancer. It also binds metal ions, increases the activity of antioxidants and stabilises the texture of canned vegetables. E341 (ii) is used as polishing material in toothpaste. E341 (iii) is mainly used in powders to avoid formation of clumps.

Products:
Many different products, mainly bakery products.

Acceptable Daily Intake:
Up to 70 mg/kg body weight.

Side effects:
Phosphates are normal essential salts for the body. In view of the need to avoid calcium deficiency, their use is limited, as they bind to calcium readily. They have no side effects.

Dietary restrictions:
Phosphoric acid and phosphates can normally be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians. Although animal bones are mainly made up of phosphates, commercial phosphate is not made from bones.