Calcium Phosphates
The short version
Calcium salts of phosphoric acid — leavening agents and a calcium fortifier, also the mineral of bones.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Naturally occurring as bone mineral (hydroxyapatite) and the mineral apatite. Food-grade material is manufactured by reacting phosphoric acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate to varying stoichiometries.
How it's used
Monocalcium phosphate is the dominant fast-acting leavening acid in commercial baking powders. Tricalcium phosphate is an anticaking agent in powdered drinks and a calcium fortifier in cereals and infant formula. Dicalcium phosphate is used in dietary supplements.
Safety profile
ADI of 70 mg/kg body weight as phosphorus (combined phosphates). Provides both calcium and phosphorus — a beneficial nutrient contribution at typical exposure, but adds to total phosphate load relevant for chronic kidney disease patients.
Physical & chemical properties
White crystalline powders, low to moderate solubility in water. Tricalcium phosphate is the least soluble — useful for slow-release applications.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally with maximum levels expressed as phosphorus. Standard ingredient in fortified flours.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.