acidity regulator INS 339

Sodium Phosphates E339

buffering agent, emulsifier, texturizer — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Monosodium phosphate (E339i), Disodium phosphate (E339ii), Trisodium phosphate (E339iii)

CAS: 7558-80-7 (i), 7558-79-4 (ii), 7601-54-9 (iii)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Global Status

European Union approved

United States approved

Japan approved

Canada approved

AU / NZ approved

Also Known As

Sodium orthophosphatesMSP (monosodium phosphate)DSP (disodium phosphate)TSP (trisodium phosphate)

Commonly Found In

Processed cheese and cheese spreads (emulsifying salt) Baking powder and cake mixes Processed meats (ham, sausages - improves moisture retention) Breakfast cereals Cola beverages and soft drinks Instant puddings and gelatin desserts Canned soups and sauces Frozen French fries and potato products

Typical product categories; may vary by brand. Always check the physical label.

Similar Additives

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Sodium Phosphates is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by category mg/kg

Quantum satis in many categories; specific limits in others. EFSA 2019 raised concerns about total dietary phosphate intake.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Widely used in processed foods

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0-70 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus, for all phosphates)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus, for all phosphates)

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by neutralizing phosphoric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. The degree of neutralization determines which form is produced: monosodium phosphate (E339i, one sodium atom), disodium phosphate (E339ii, two sodium atoms), or trisodium phosphate (E339iii, three sodium atoms). Each has different pH and functional properties.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

pH adjuster and buffering agent in personal care products.

Medical

Buffering agent, laxative (some forms), pharmaceutical excipient.

Industrial

Detergents, water treatment, metal cleaning, flame retardants.

Household

Cleaning products, TSP used as heavy-duty cleaner and paint prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sodium Phosphates (E339)?

Sodium Phosphates (E339) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is buffering agent, emulsifier, texturizer and synthetic. Sodium phosphates do not occur naturally in free form. Phosphate compounds are ubiquitous in nature as essential components of bones, DNA, and cellular energy systems, but sodium phosphates used in food are synthetically produced.

What is the ADI for Sodium Phosphates?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sodium Phosphates is 0-70 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus, for all phosphates) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Sodium Phosphates?

Sodium Phosphates is used in various food categories including Cheese and cheese products, Meat preparations, Fresh pasta. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.

Is Sodium Phosphates the same as Sodium orthophosphates?

Yes, Sodium Phosphates is also known as Sodium orthophosphates, MSP (monosodium phosphate), DSP (disodium phosphate), TSP (trisodium phosphate). These are different names for the same substance.