Bone Phosphate
The short version
Hydroxyapatite from defatted bone — a calcium and phosphate source, deprecated in most direct food use.
It's permitted and generally considered safe, but there are a few reasons to be mindful — like sensitivities in some people, debated studies, or intake limits. The Safety section below explains the specifics.
Where it comes from
Produced by defatting, calcining, and milling animal bone (typically cattle bone). The resulting material is hydroxyapatite — the same mineral that forms most of human and animal bone tissue.
How it's used
Largely deprecated for direct food use following BSE-era animal-bone restrictions. Some legacy applications in calcium supplements (where the bone-derived form is sometimes marketed as a 'natural' calcium source). Non-food use remains common in toothpaste, ceramics, and water treatment.
Safety profile
ADI of 40 mg/kg body weight (combined added phosphates, EFSA 2019). The animal-source origin requires BSE-safety controls. Calcium and phosphate are both nutritive at these levels.
Physical & chemical properties
White to off-white fine powder. Practically insoluble in water; slowly soluble in dilute acid.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted in the EU with strict TSE/BSE controls. US use is rare. Deprecated in most consumer-facing applications.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.