Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate E340(i): Food Applications, Uses and Supplier Guide
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate, also known as monopotassium phosphate, potassium phosphate monobasic, potassium acid phosphate or MKP, is a potassium phosphate ingredient used in food, beverage, nutrition, fermentation, agriculture and industrial applications. In food additive labeling, it is identified as E340(i) or INS 340(i).
In food processing, potassium dihydrogen phosphate is mainly used as an acidity regulator, buffering agent, sequestrant, stabilizer, nutrient supplement and potassium-phosphate source. It is especially useful when a formulation needs potassium instead of sodium, pH control, mineral support or phosphate functionality.
For importers, distributors and food manufacturers, the key is to confirm the correct grade, specification, heavy metal limits, COA, TDS, SDS and export documents before purchasing.
This guide explains what potassium dihydrogen phosphate is, where it is used, how it differs from other potassium phosphates, and what buyers should check when sourcing food grade material.
What Is Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate?
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate is an inorganic potassium salt of phosphoric acid. Its chemical formula is KH2PO4. It is usually supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules that are soluble in water.
In different markets and technical documents, the same product may appear under several names. Buyers should confirm the name, E number, CAS number and grade before quotation.
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate |
| Other Names | Monopotassium phosphate, potassium phosphate monobasic, potassium acid phosphate, potassium biphosphate |
| Common Abbreviation | MKP |
| E Number / INS Number | E340(i) / INS 340(i) |
| CAS No. | 7778-77-0 |
| Chemical Formula | KH2PO4 |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| pH Character | Acidic potassium phosphate |
| Main Food Functions | Acidity regulator, buffer, sequestrant, stabilizer, nutrient supplement and potassium source |
Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate should not be confused with fertilizer grade MKP. Fertilizer grade material is widely used in agriculture, but it is not suitable for food production unless it meets food additive specifications and documentation requirements.
Is Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate the Same as Monopotassium Phosphate?
Yes. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate and monopotassium phosphate usually refer to the same compound, KH2PO4. It may also be called potassium phosphate monobasic or potassium acid phosphate.
| Name Used by Buyer | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate | Formal chemical name for KH2PO4 |
| Monopotassium Phosphate | Common commercial name |
| Potassium Phosphate Monobasic | Common U.S. chemical name |
| Potassium Acid Phosphate | Alternative commercial name |
| MKP | Common abbreviation, especially in agriculture and technical markets |
| E340(i) / INS 340(i) | Food additive identification |
What Is Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Used for in Food?
In food processing, potassium dihydrogen phosphate can provide both potassium and phosphate functionality. It is commonly selected when the manufacturer needs pH control, buffering, stabilization, mineral supplementation or a potassium-based phosphate instead of a sodium-based phosphate.
| Function | How It Helps | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity Regulator | Helps adjust and maintain pH in food and beverage systems | Beverages, sauces, dairy systems, processed foods |
| Buffering Agent | Helps stabilize pH during processing and storage | Sports drinks, nutrition products, fermentation systems, dairy products |
| Nutrient Supplement | Provides potassium and phosphate in selected formulas | Electrolyte drinks, nutrition powders, dietary products, fortified foods |
| Sequestrant | Binds metal ions that may affect color, flavor or stability | Beverages, canned foods, water-based systems, processed foods |
| Stabilizer | Supports texture and consistency in formulated products | Dairy products, sauces, dressings, processed foods |
| Fermentation Support | Provides phosphate buffering and mineral support for microorganisms | Fermentation media, yeast systems, brewing-related processes |
Common Food Applications of Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate
1. Sports Drinks and Electrolyte Beverages
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate can be used in sports drinks, electrolyte beverages and nutritional beverages where potassium, phosphate and pH control are important.
Typical beverage applications include:
- Sports drinks
- Electrolyte beverages
- Energy drinks
- Nutritional beverages
- Powdered drink mixes
- Mineral-fortified drinks
For beverage manufacturers, key checks include solubility, clarity, pH target, taste impact, mineral content and local food additive regulations.
2. Nutrition Products and Fortified Foods
Because potassium dihydrogen phosphate provides both potassium and phosphate, it can be used in selected nutrition products and fortified food systems.
Typical applications include:
- Nutrition powders
- Meal replacement products
- Vitamin and mineral premixes
- Electrolyte powder blends
- Special dietary products
- Fortified beverages
For nutrition products, buyers should confirm potassium content, phosphate content, heavy metal limits, particle size, solubility and compliance in the target market.
3. Processed Foods, Sauces and Dressings
Potassium phosphate monobasic may be used in processed foods where pH control and stabilization are required. It may help maintain formula consistency and reduce unwanted quality changes during storage.
Possible applications include:
- Sauces
- Dressings
- Processed foods
- Ready meals
- Seasoning systems
- Water-based food formulations
For sauces and processed foods, the final effect depends on pH, salt level, water activity, heat treatment and other ingredients in the formulation.
4. Dairy and Cheese Systems
Potassium phosphates may be used in dairy and cheese systems when the formula needs pH control, mineral balance or potassium-based functionality. Monopotassium phosphate can be used alone or together with other phosphate or citrate salts depending on the target texture and stability.
Possible applications include:
- Dairy-based beverages
- Processed cheese systems
- Cheese sauces
- Creamy desserts
- Milk-based processed products
For dairy and cheese manufacturers, the phosphate system should be tested in the actual formula because pH, protein behavior, melting performance and flavor can change with salt selection.
Related application: Food Additives for Cheese and Dairy Processing
5. Meat, Poultry and Seafood Processing
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate may be used in selected meat, poultry or seafood systems where potassium-based phosphate functionality is desired. However, for water retention and protein functionality, other phosphates such as STPP, TSPP, SHMP or customized blended phosphates are often more commonly used.
Possible applications include:
- Processed meat products
- Low-sodium meat formulations
- Poultry products
- Seafood systems
- Marinades and brines
For meat or seafood processors, phosphate selection should be based on pH target, water retention requirement, sodium reduction goal, labeling requirement and destination market regulation.
Related applications: Meat and Poultry Processing | Seafood Processing
6. Fermentation, Yeast and Brewing Applications
Potassium phosphate monobasic can be used as a buffer and nutrient source in selected fermentation and yeast systems. It can help provide phosphate and potassium while supporting pH control.
Possible applications include:
- Fermentation media
- Yeast culture systems
- Brewing-related processes
- Enzyme production systems
- Bioprocessing applications
For fermentation applications, buyers should confirm the required grade, purity, microbial limits if required and compatibility with the complete fermentation medium.
Potassium Phosphate Monobasic vs Dipotassium Phosphate vs Tripotassium Phosphate
Potassium phosphate monobasic belongs to the E340 potassium phosphate family. The three common members are monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate and tripotassium phosphate. They have different pH behavior and application profiles.
| Product | E Number | Formula | pH Character | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monopotassium Phosphate | E340(i) | KH2PO4 | Acidic | pH control, buffering, nutrient supplement, electrolyte systems |
| Dipotassium Phosphate | E340(ii) | K2HPO4 | Near neutral to alkaline | Dairy systems, buffers, coffee creamers, processed foods and low-sodium formulas |
| Tripotassium Phosphate | E340(iii) | K3PO4 | Alkaline | pH adjustment, selected food processing and technical applications |
If the formula needs an acidic potassium phosphate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate E340(i) is relevant. If the formula needs stronger buffering near neutral or alkaline conditions, dipotassium phosphate or tripotassium phosphate may be more suitable.
Related article: Monopotassium Phosphate vs Dipotassium Phosphate
Food Grade vs Fertilizer Grade Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate is widely used in agriculture as a fertilizer because it provides potassium and phosphorus. However, fertilizer grade MKP should not be used in food production.
| Grade | Main Use | Buyer Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Food Grade | Food, beverage, nutrition and processing applications | Food additive standard, heavy metals, COA, SDS, TDS, food grade statement |
| Fertilizer Grade | Agriculture, foliar spray, fertigation and hydroponics | NPK value, solubility, crop application, agronomic performance |
| Technical Grade | Industrial, buffer, laboratory or process use depending on specification | Purity, impurities, pH, solubility and intended application |
If you are buying for food or beverage production, always request food grade potassium phosphate monobasic with complete documentation. Do not replace it with fertilizer grade MKP unless the final application is agricultural.
Food Grade Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Specification: What Buyers Should Check
When sourcing food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate, buyers should check the specification carefully. Quality affects solubility, pH, taste, clarity, mineral content and regulatory compliance.
| Test Item | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Confirms white crystalline powder or granule consistency |
| Main Content / Assay | Confirms purity and chemical content |
| Potassium Content | Important for nutrition and formula calculation |
| Phosphorus / P2O5 Content | Important for phosphate specification and formula calculation |
| pH Value | Affects acidity regulation and buffering performance |
| Water Insoluble Matter | Affects beverage clarity, processing cleanliness and solubility |
| Moisture / Loss on Drying | Affects storage stability and powder flow |
| Fluoride | Important impurity control item for phosphate products |
| Lead | Important for food grade and strict export markets |
| Arsenic | Important heavy metal control item |
| Cadmium / Mercury | May be required by strict customer or market standards |
| Particle Size | Affects dissolving speed, blending and powder handling |
For bulk orders, buyers should request the latest batch COA before shipment. The COA should show actual batch values, not only general product specifications.
Why Low Heavy Metals Matter
Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate may be used in beverages, nutrition products, dairy systems and processed foods, so low heavy metal control is important.
Buyers should pay attention to:
- Lead
- Arsenic
- Fluoride
- Cadmium
- Mercury
- Water insoluble matter
- Actual batch COA data
Low heavy metal control is especially important for buyers selling to strict markets such as the United States, European Union, Middle East, Southeast Asia and high-standard food or nutrition customers.
Documents You Should Request from a Supplier
For international purchasing, documents are as important as price. A reliable potassium dihydrogen phosphate supplier should provide clear technical, food grade and export documents.
| Document | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| COA | Confirms batch quality and actual test values |
| TDS | Shows product specification, properties and applications |
| SDS / MSDS | Required for safe handling, storage and transport |
| Food Grade Statement | Confirms suitability for food additive applications |
| Halal Certificate | Important for Muslim markets |
| Kosher Certificate | Required by some food manufacturers and distributors |
| Allergen Statement | Often requested by food and nutrition brands |
| GMO Statement | Often required for international ingredient purchasing |
| Certificate of Origin | May be required for customs clearance |
| Packing List and Commercial Invoice | Required for import and export process |
If the product is used in beverages, nutrition products, infant-related formulas, fermentation or pharmaceutical-related applications, additional documents may be required.
Is Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Safe in Food?
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate is permitted for food use in many markets when it meets applicable food additive standards and is used according to local regulations and good manufacturing practice.
However, allowed applications and dosage limits vary by country, product category and finished food. Buyers should always confirm:
- Destination market regulation
- Food category permission
- Maximum permitted use level
- Labeling requirement
- Customer specification
- Halal, Kosher or other certification requirements
For electrolyte and nutrition products, buyers should also evaluate total potassium and phosphorus intake from the finished product.
Packaging and Storage
Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate is commonly supplied in 25 kg bags or customized export packaging according to buyer requirements.
Recommended storage conditions include:
- Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated warehouse
- Keep away from moisture
- Keep packaging sealed after opening
- Avoid contamination with strong odors or incompatible materials
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Follow the SDS for handling and storage
Because potassium dihydrogen phosphate is water soluble and hygroscopic, moisture control is important for maintaining powder quality, flowability and shelf life.
How to Choose a Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Supplier
When choosing a potassium dihydrogen phosphate supplier, buyers should evaluate more than price. Food grade phosphate quality affects solubility, clarity, pH control, regulatory compliance and customer approval.
1. Confirm the Correct Product Name
Make sure the quotation clearly states potassium dihydrogen phosphate, monopotassium phosphate or potassium phosphate monobasic. Also confirm E340(i), CAS 7778-77-0 and formula KH2PO4.
2. Confirm Food Grade Quality
If the final application is food, beverage or nutrition processing, fertilizer grade or industrial grade material should not be used. Ask for food grade specification and batch COA.
3. Check Solubility and pH
For beverages and water-based systems, solubility, pH value and water insoluble matter are important quality indicators.
4. Check Heavy Metal Data
Ask for actual batch COA data for lead, arsenic, fluoride and other required impurities. This is especially important for strict export markets.
5. Confirm Application Support
The supplier should understand whether the buyer needs MKP for beverages, nutrition products, dairy systems, meat processing, fermentation, agriculture or technical applications.
6. Confirm Export Documents
For international trade, COA, TDS, SDS, certificate of origin, packing list and commercial invoice should be confirmed before shipment.
Why Buy Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate from Guizhou Lvyin Biotech?
Guizhou Lvyin Biotech supplies high-purity phosphates, sodium phosphates, potassium phosphates, calcium phosphates, magnesium phosphates, acetates, citrates and customized food additive solutions for international buyers.
For potassium dihydrogen phosphate and related potassium phosphate products, we can support:
- Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate E340(i)
- Stable batch quality and COA
- Low heavy metal control
- Application support for food, beverage, nutrition and fermentation systems
- COA, TDS, SDS and export documents
- Halal and other documents according to order requirements
- Standard 25 kg export packaging
- Flexible packaging according to buyer requirements
- Export support for importers, distributors and food factories
If you are sourcing potassium dihydrogen phosphate from China, contact us for the latest specification, COA, sample availability and quotation.
Request Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate COA/MSDS and quotation: Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions About Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate
What is potassium dihydrogen phosphate?
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate is a potassium phosphate with the formula KH2PO4. It is also called monopotassium phosphate, potassium phosphate monobasic, potassium acid phosphate or MKP.
What is the E number of potassium dihydrogen phosphate?
The E number of potassium dihydrogen phosphate is E340(i). It is also known as INS 340(i).
What is potassium dihydrogen phosphate used for in food?
It is used as an acidity regulator, buffering agent, sequestrant, stabilizer, nutrient supplement and potassium-phosphate source in selected food and beverage applications.
Is potassium dihydrogen phosphate the same as monopotassium phosphate?
Yes. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate and monopotassium phosphate usually refer to the same compound, KH2PO4.
Is potassium dihydrogen phosphate the same as dipotassium phosphate?
No. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate is E340(i) and has the formula KH2PO4. Dipotassium phosphate is E340(ii) and has the formula K2HPO4. They have different pH behavior and different application profiles.
Can potassium dihydrogen phosphate be used in sports drinks?
Yes. It may be used in selected sports drinks, electrolyte beverages and nutrition drinks as a potassium and phosphate source and pH control ingredient, depending on local regulations and formula design.
Can fertilizer grade MKP be used in food?
No. Fertilizer grade MKP should not be used in food production. Food applications require food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate with suitable specifications, low heavy metals and complete food grade documents.
What documents should I request before buying potassium dihydrogen phosphate?
Buyers should request COA, TDS, SDS or MSDS, food grade statement, Halal or Kosher certificate if required, certificate of origin, packing list and commercial invoice.
Can potassium dihydrogen phosphate be supplied in 25 kg bags?
Yes. Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate is commonly supplied in 25 kg bags, with palletized shipment or customized export packaging available according to buyer requirements.
Conclusion
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate E340(i), also known as monopotassium phosphate or potassium phosphate monobasic, is a useful potassium phosphate for food, beverage, nutrition, fermentation and selected processing applications. Its main functions include acidity regulation, buffering, sequestration, stabilization and mineral support.
For buyers, the most important step is to confirm the exact product name, food grade quality, specification, low heavy metals, COA and export documents before purchase. Food grade potassium dihydrogen phosphate should not be replaced by fertilizer grade MKP for food applications.
Guizhou Lvyin Biotech supplies potassium phosphate products for global buyers. Contact us to request the latest specification, COA and quotation.
Get Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate E340(i) quotation: Contact Us
