Ammonium phosphate
Learn what Ammonium phosphate (E442) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Ammonium phosphate?
Food additive used as an emulsifier and stabilizer, derived from ammonia and phosphorylated fatty acids, primarily used in confectionery and pastry products based on chocolate and cocoa.
Why is Ammonium phosphate added to food?
Ammonium phosphate (E442) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Pastry and confectionery products with cocoa.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Ammonium phosphate safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Ammonium phosphate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ammonium phosphate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Ammonium phosphate
- Pastry and confectionery products with cocoa
See the full list of foods that contain Ammonium phosphate →
How to spot Ammonium phosphate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E442
- Ammonium phosphate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- ammonium dhosphate
- ammonlum phosphate
- ammonium phosphate
- dmmonium phosphate
- ammonium phosphdte
- ammonium pho$phate
- ammonium phosdhate
Better alternatives
• May cause adverse reactions in individuals sensitive to phosphates or ammonia, including allergic reactions. • Excessive use may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. • Not recommended for people with kidney conditions, as phosphorus accumulation in the body can affect kidney function. • Can interfere with calcium and magnesium metabolism, increasing the risk of mineral deficiencies. • Not recommended for people with liver conditions or phosphorus metabolism disorders.
Also known as
- ammonium dhosphate
- ammonlum phosphate
- ammonium phosphate
- dmmonium phosphate
- ammonium phosphdte
- ammonium pho$phate
- ammonium phosdhate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Ammonium phosphate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E442 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Ammonium phosphate
- Is Ammonium phosphate safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Ammonium phosphate banned anywhere?
- Ammonium phosphate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Ammonium phosphate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Ammonium phosphate on a food label?
- Look for E442, Ammonium phosphate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ammonium dhosphate, ammonlum phosphate, ammonium phosphate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.