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343 Magnesium phosphates

343(i) Magnesium dihydrogen phosphate
343(ii) Magnesium hydrogen phosphate
343(iii) Trimagnesium phosphate

Origin:
Magnesium 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:
Magnesium phosphate is used as an emulsifier; it also increases the activity of antioxidants. It prevents clumping in powders. Also used as a magnesium salt in functional foods and food supplements.

Products:
Few bakery products, food supplements.

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 up 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.