Premium Nahrungsergänzungsmittel | artgerecht

E341iii (Tricalcium Phosphate) – Food Additive

E341iii (tricalcium phosphate) is an approved food additive used as an acidity regulator, anticaking agent, and stabiliser in various food products.

Regular tips about health Regular tips about health

Things worth knowing about "E341iii"

E341iii (tricalcium phosphate) is an approved food additive used as an acidity regulator, anticaking agent, and stabiliser in various food products.

What is E341iii?

E341iii refers to tricalcium phosphate, the calcium salt of phosphoric acid with the highest calcium content. It belongs to the group of calcium phosphates (E341), which are divided into three subgroups: monocalcium phosphate (E341i), dicalcium phosphate (E341ii), and tricalcium phosphate (E341iii). In the food industry, E341iii is used as an acidity regulator, anticaking agent, stabiliser, and raising agent.

Properties and Composition

Tricalcium phosphate has the chemical formula Ca₃(PO₄)₂. It appears as a white, odourless powder and is practically insoluble in water. The compound occurs naturally in the bones and teeth of humans and animals and is a key component of the bone mineral hydroxyapatite.

Uses in Food

E341iii is used in a wide variety of food products and beverages. Typical applications include:

Baked goods and baking mixes: As a raising agent and anticaking agent to prevent powders from clumping together.
Milk powder and powdered beverages: As a flow agent to keep powder free-flowing.
Dietary foods and food supplements: As a calcium source for food fortification.
Processed cheese: As an emulsifying salt and stabiliser.
Infant formula: For calcium supplementation in formula products.

Health Assessment and Safety

Tricalcium phosphate is considered safe by the relevant regulatory authorities. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has classified E341iii as safe when used within the specified limits. In many food categories, the quantum satis principle applies, meaning it is only used in the amount technically necessary, without a fixed maximum level being prescribed.

However, since phosphates in larger amounts may put a strain on kidney health, individuals with impaired kidney function (chronic kidney disease) should be mindful of overall phosphate intake from food additives. In people with healthy kidneys, excessive intake through a normal diet is generally not a concern.

Calcium and Phosphorus Supply

Tricalcium phosphate simultaneously provides calcium and phosphorus – two essential minerals for the human body. Calcium is important for bones, teeth, and muscle function, while phosphorus plays a central role in energy metabolism (ATP production) and acid-base balance. As a food additive, E341iii contributes to meeting the requirements for these minerals in fortified products.

Labelling and Regulation

In the European Union, E341iii is authorised under Food Additives Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008. It must be declared on the ingredient list of food products either as E341iii or as tricalcium phosphate. Its use is restricted to certain food categories and is subject to the maximum levels specified therein or to the quantum satis principle.

References

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of phosphoric acid - phosphates - di-, tri- and polyphosphates (E 338-341, E 343, E 450-452) as food additives. EFSA Journal 2019;17(6):5674.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives. Official Journal of the European Union, 2008.
Bender D.A.: Benders' Dictionary of Nutrition and Food Technology. 8th edition. Woodhead Publishing, Cambridge, 2006.

Building Blocks for a Healthy Life

As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.