Learn Glossary preservative

Polyphosphates(E450-E452)

Level 3ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary

Polyphosphates is a preservative — Salts of phosphoric acid with multiple phosphate units; aid processing and improve eating quality of foods (especially meat and fish)

What it does

Salts of phosphoric acid with multiple phosphate units; aid processing and improve eating quality of foods (especially meat and fish)

Where you'll see it

processed meats, fish products, baking powder, cola drinks, dairy products

What the research says

Main value is improving retention of water by protein in fish. Excessive phosphate intake may affect mineral balance. Used heavily in fertilizers and detergents too.

Regulatory status

  • EU: approved

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Polyphosphates are legally permitted additives that are mainly used to aid processing or to improve eating quality of many foods, particularly fish and fish products