E339: Sodium Phosphates
Main role: buffering and emulsifying-salt functions
Also listed as: monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate, trisodium phosphate
What is E339 (Sodium Phosphates)?
E339 covers several sodium phosphate forms. Depending on the form and recipe, they can control acidity, support protein behavior, or help maintain an emulsion. The parent E number can hide meaningful differences between mono-, di-, and trisodium preparations.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is buffering and emulsifying-salt functions. Phosphate ingredients have several recipe roles, including acidity control, water management, and texture. Some codes cover multiple related salts, so the full ingredient name is useful when identifying a specific preparation.
Food and formulation examples
- Processed-cheese formulations
- Specified meat preparations
- Beverage buffers
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E339, E 339, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate, trisodium phosphate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The full phosphate name can explain why it is used, but it does not quantify total sodium or phosphorus. People managing phosphorus intake need the complete diet and product information.
Is E339 safe?
EFSA’s 2019 phosphate assessment excludes moderate or severe kidney dysfunction from its general-population intake limit. EFSA phosphate assessment (2019).
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E339 as Sodium phosphates. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.