Sodium phosphate

What this is

Sodium phosphate refers to a group of sodium salt additives derived from phosphoric acid. Fast-food chains use these compounds in a variety of products. For example, sodium phosphates help processed cheese melt smoothly, keep deli meats moist, and prevent french fries from discoloring before cooking. They can also act as leavening agents in baked goods and as pH stabilizers in sauces. The U.S. FDA classifies food-grade sodium phosphates as “generally recognized as safe” when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. While normal dietary exposure is considered safe, people with kidney disease or those eating very high-phosphate diets are advised to moderate their intake.

Critical Endpoints

The key endpoints experts review in safety assessments (critical endpoints). This is not a prediction of harm.