What is E341?
E341 is a food additive known as calcium phosphates. It refers to a group of salts derived from calcium and phosphoric acid. The specific types of calcium phosphates that fall under the E341 designation include:
E341(i): Monocalcium phosphate (MCP)
E341(ii): Dicalcium phosphate (DCP)
E341(iii): Tricalcium phosphate (TCP)
These different forms of calcium phosphates are used in various food applications and serve multiple functions. As mentioned before, E341 is commonly employed as a stabilizer, acidity regulator, and firming agent in the food industry.
| Names | E341(i) | E341(ii) | E341(iii) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formula | Ca(H2PO4)2 | CaHPO4 | Ca3(PO4)2 |
| Molecular weight | 234.05 g/mol | 136.06 g/mol | 310.18 g/mol |
| HS Code | 28352600 | 28352500 | 28352600 |
| CAS No. | 7758-23-8 | 7757-93-9 | 7758-87-4 |
| Loadage | 25mts in a 1X20' fcl | 25mts in a 1X20' fcl | 25mts in a 1X20' fcl |
| Appearance | White powder or granules | White powder or granules | White powder or granules |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water | Insoluble in water | Insoluble in water |
| pH Value | 4.1-5.0 | 6.0-7.0 | 8.5-9.5 |
| Loss on Drying (%) | Not more than 2.0% | Not more than 10.0% | Not more than 6.0% |
| Function | Monocalcium phosphate anhydrous (MCP) is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking, contributing to the rise and texture of baked goods. | Dicalcium phosphate (DCP) is often used as a calcium and phosphorus supplement in food products to provide essential minerals. | Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) acts as a firming agent, enhancing the texture and firmness of various food products. |
What Are Their Functions and Corresponding Foods they could Work on?
| Items | Functions | Foods |
|---|---|---|
| E341(i) (MCP) | - Acts as a leavening agent in baked goods | - Sponge cakes |
| - Adjusts pH level for taste and stability | - Bagels | |
| - Improves texture and crumb structure | - English muffins | |
| - Provides calcium in baked goods | - Pizza dough | |
| - Enhances browning and crust development | - Pretzels | |
| - Acts as a nutrient supplement, providing phosphorus | - Pie crusts | |
| E341(ii) (DCP) | - Provides a source of calcium and phosphorus in food products | - Biscuits |
| - Enhances the nutritional value of fortified foods | - Tortillas | |
| - Helps maintain pH balance | - Scones | |
| - Acts as a texture modifier and stabilizer | - Donuts | |
| - Prevents caking or clumping in powdered food products | - Milk Powder | |
| - Promotes bone health | - Tables | |
| E341(iii) (TCP) | - Acts as a firming agent to enhance texture and firmness | - Processed meats (e.g., sausages) |
| - Adjusts pH level for stability | - Canned vegetables (e.g., peas) | |
| - Acts as an anti-caking agent | - Processed cheese slices | |
| - Improves water retention | - Instant mashed potatoes | |
| - Promotes uniform heat distribution in baked goods | - Whipped toppings | |
| - Maintains color and appearance of processed foods | - Coffee creamers | |
| - Non-dairy creamers | ||
| - Powdered dessert mixes | ||
| - Processed seafood products | ||
| - Instant noodles |
Apart from Food Industry, Can E341 Work in Other Industries?
Pharmaceutical Industry
E341 is widely used as excipients in pharmaceutical formulations, such as tablets and capsules. They serve as binders, disintegrants, and fillers, aiding in the manufacturing and stability of oral solid dosage forms.
Oral Health Products
E341, particularly E341(ii), is used in toothpaste and oral care products. They contribute to the remineralization of tooth enamel, helping to strengthen and protect teeth against tooth decay and erosion.
Nutritional Supplements
E341, including E341(iii), is used as calcium and phosphorus supplements in the form of tablets, powders, or capsules. They provide essential minerals for maintaining bone health and overall nutrition.
Bone Grafting
Certain forms of calcium phosphates(E341), such as hydroxyapatite, are used in the field of orthopedics and dentistry as bone graft materials. They have excellent biocompatibility and can promote bone regeneration and healing in various bone defects and dental applications.
Water Treatment
E341(iii) has been utilized in water treatment processes as a coagulant or flocculant. It helps to remove impurities and improve water clarity by aiding in the removal of suspended solids and certain contaminants.
Is E341 safe in food?
Yes, E341 is considered safe for consumption in food when used within the approved limits set by regulatory authorities. The safety of E341 additives, such as monocalcium phosphate (E341(i)), dicalcium phosphate (E341(ii)), and tricalcium phosphate (E341(iii)), has been assessed by scientific bodies and regulatory agencies worldwide.
These additives have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation for their safety, including toxicological studies and exposure assessments. Based on the available scientific evidence, they are considered safe for use in food when used in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and within the approved usage levels.
It’s important to note that regulatory authorities, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), establish specific maximum limits for the use of food additives like E341 to ensure they do not pose any significant risk to human health.
In conclusion, E341, which refers to calcium phosphates, serves various functions in the food industry, and pharmaceutical industry.E341 is considered safe for consumption when used within approved limits. Regulatory authorities have thoroughly assessed its safety based on scientific studies and evaluations. Overall, E341 plays a valuable role in the food industry and various other sectors, contributing to product quality, nutrition, and safety.
If you are an importer looking for a reliable supplier of E341, be sure to choose a reputable company with a proven track record of quality and reliability. Contact Us [email protected]
