E340: Potassium Phosphates
Main role: buffering and formulation stabilization
Also listed as: monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, tripotassium phosphate
What is E340 (Potassium Phosphates)?
Potassium phosphates are potassium salts of phosphoric acid. They are used in buffering and stabilization systems, with the exact form selected for the recipe. Their mineral counterion differs from sodium phosphates while the phosphate component remains.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is buffering and formulation stabilization. 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
- Beverage buffers
- Specified protein preparations
- Acidity-control blends
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 E340, E 340, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, tripotassium phosphate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Changing sodium phosphate to potassium phosphate changes the mineral balance, not the fact that phosphate is present. Use the nutrition panel and relevant medical dietary advice for mineral restrictions.
Is E340 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 E340 as Potassium 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.