Ingredient · E340

Potassium phosphates

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Potassium phosphates function as acidity regulators, stabilisers, and emulsifiers in a variety of food …

What is Potassium phosphates?

Potassium phosphates are a group of salts and esters of phosphoric acid. They occur naturally in the body and are also found in many foods. In food production, they are typically manufactured through chemical processes.

Is Potassium phosphates a major allergen?

Potassium phosphates are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Potassium phosphates used for?

Potassium phosphates function as acidity regulators, stabilisers, and emulsifiers in a variety of food products.

Is Potassium phosphates safe?

Potassium phosphates are authorised food additives in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Potassium phosphates function as acidity regulators, stabilisers, and emulsifiers in a variety of food products. They help to maintain texture and prevent separation in items like dairy alternatives, processed cheeses, and beverages.

Health notes

Potassium phosphates are authorised food additives in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They have been evaluated by EFSA, which has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for phosphates. Phosphates are naturally present in many foods and are essential minerals, but high intakes from all sources are a consideration for kidney health, as advised by SACN.

Regulatory status

Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products

Permitted uses in the EU

Potassium phosphates · legislation: (EU) No 1129/2011

Food categoryMaximum level
1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children*1000
13.1.1 infant formulae as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013No numerical limit listed
13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013No numerical limit listed
13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/20131000
13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants1000

Maximum levels are shown as published (mg/kg or mg/l, depending on the food). Some entries carry extra conditions and group authorisations are not listed here, so check the full entry before relying on a figure.

Substance is included in E 338 - 341, E 343 and E 450 - 452, see also authorisation for Group E 338 - 341, E 343 and E 450 - 452

Sources: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3); European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Potassium phosphates are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Potassium phosphates

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.