Sodium phosphates

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Sodium phosphate is a generic term for the salts of sodium and phosphate. They are:

• Monosodium phosphate (NaH₂PO₄)
• Disodium phosphate (Na₂HPO₄)
• Trisodium phosphate (Na₃PO₄)

[edit] Use

Sodium phosphates are used as food additives. Sodium phosphates are added to many foods as an emulsifier to prevent oil separation. Some examples are processed cheeses, processed meats, ready-made meals and tinned (canned) soups. Sodium phosphates are also commonly added to powdered soups, boullions and gravy mixtures.

Sodium phosphates can also be used as a leavening agent. Some examples of these foods include the batter coating on breaded fish or chicken, and commercially baked cakes.

Adding sodium phosphates to food increases the shelf life of the food; maintaining the texture and appearance of the food.

Sodium Phosphate (trisodium phosphate) is also an ingredient of cleaning products; e.g. Sugar soap.

[edit] References

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