Sodium Polyphosphate (E452I): What It Is and Is It Safe?
A long-chain sodium polyphosphate, commonly sodium hexametaphosphate (NaPO₃)ₙ, also known as Graham's salt. Used to soften water (sequester calcium and magnesium), retain moisture in processed foods, and as an emulsifier. High cumulative phosphate intake is linked to kidney damage and cardiovascular risk. Used extensively in processed seafood and meats to increase water retention, which can effectively dilute protein content.
- Category
- Stabiliser / Sequestrant
- Typically used in
- Processed seafood (shrimp, scallops), processed meats, cheese, sauces, some soft drinks
- Regulatory status
- Approved EU/USA/UK. Caution for kidney conditions. Can increase water retention in seafood.
- Also listed as
- Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Graham's Salt
- Concerns flagged
-
Cardiovascular concernKidney effects
Scrannr flags Sodium Polyphosphate automatically when you scan a barcode.
Where this comes from
- EFSA (2019) — Re-evaluation of phosphoric acid-phosphates – di-, tri- and polyphosphates (E 338–341, E 343, E 450–452) as food additives https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5674
Products containing Sodium Polyphosphate
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