Sodium phosphates
Learn what Sodium phosphates (E339) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sodium phosphates?
Food additive with functions as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, sequestrant, humectant, and stabilizer (for water retention and thickening), available in forms E 339(i) – Monosodium phosphate, E 339(ii) – Disodium phosphate, and E 339(iii) – Trisodium phosphate.
Why is Sodium phosphates added to food?
Sodium phosphates (E339) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Powdered milk, UHT cream, whipped cream, fresh cheese.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for accumulated phosphorus is up to 70 mg/kg body weight.
Is Sodium phosphates safe?
Low concern
Excessive amounts of phosphates can cause metabolic disturbances.
Is Sodium phosphates banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium phosphates okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in baby foods within the imposed limits.
Common foods that contain Sodium phosphates
- Powdered milk
- UHT cream
- whipped cream
- fresh cheese
How to spot Sodium phosphates on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E339
- Sodium phosphates
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium pho$phates
- sodium dhosphates
- sodium phosphate$
- sodium phosphates
- sodlum phosphates
- $odium phosphates
- sodium phosphdtes
- sodium phosdhates
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption can affect the phosphorus and calcium balance in the body. • May contribute to osteoporosis by reducing calcium absorption. • In individuals with kidney problems, it can lead to dangerous phosphorus accumulation. • High consumption may cause digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea. • May worsen high blood pressure and negatively affect cardiovascular health.
Also known as
- sodium pho$phates
- sodium dhosphates
- sodium phosphate$
- sodium phosphates
- sodlum phosphates
- $odium phosphates
- sodium phosphdtes
- sodium phosdhates
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium phosphates? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E339 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium phosphates
- Is Sodium phosphates safe to eat?
- Excessive amounts of phosphates can cause metabolic disturbances.
- Is Sodium phosphates banned anywhere?
- Sodium phosphates is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium phosphates safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in baby foods within the imposed limits.
- How do I spot Sodium phosphates on a food label?
- Look for E339, Sodium phosphates in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium pho$phates, sodium dhosphates, sodium phosphate$.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.