acidity regulator INS 340

Potassium Phosphates E340

buffering agent, emulsifier, stabilizer — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Monopotassium phosphate (E340i), Dipotassium phosphate (E340ii), Tripotassium phosphate (E340iii)

CAS: 7778-77-0 (i), 7758-11-4 (ii), 7778-53-2 (iii)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Global Status

European Union approved

United States approved

Japan approved

Canada approved

AU / NZ approved

Also Known As

Potassium orthophosphatesMKP (monopotassium phosphate)DKP (dipotassium phosphate)TKP (tripotassium phosphate)

Commonly Found In

Low-sodium or reduced-sodium processed foods Baking powder and leavening agents Coffee creamers (non-dairy creamers) Processed cheese products Soft drinks and cola beverages Breakfast cereals Instant puddings and dessert mixes Sports drinks and electrolyte beverages

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, Potassium 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 due to concerns about total dietary phosphate intake.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Often used as a reduced-sodium alternative to sodium phosphates

🇯🇵

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 potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate. The degree of neutralization determines which form is produced: monopotassium phosphate (E340i, KH2PO4), dipotassium phosphate (E340ii, K2HPO4), or tripotassium phosphate (E340iii, K3PO4). Each form has different pH and buffering properties.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Buffering agent in personal care formulations.

Medical

Buffering agent, electrolyte replenisher, urinary acidifier (monopotassium phosphate).

Industrial

Fertilizers (especially monopotassium phosphate), detergents, water treatment.

Household

Some cleaning products and water softeners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Potassium Phosphates (E340)?

Potassium Phosphates (E340) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is buffering agent, emulsifier, stabilizer and synthetic. Potassium phosphates do not occur naturally in free form. While phosphate compounds are essential components of all living organisms, the potassium salts used in food are synthetically manufactured.

What is the ADI for Potassium Phosphates?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Potassium 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 Potassium Phosphates?

Potassium Phosphates is used in various food categories including Cheese and cheese products, Batters, Non-alcoholic beverages. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.

Is Potassium Phosphates the same as Potassium orthophosphates?

Yes, Potassium Phosphates is also known as Potassium orthophosphates, MKP (monopotassium phosphate), DKP (dipotassium phosphate), TKP (tripotassium phosphate). These are different names for the same substance.