Potassium phosphates

Mono-, di-, and tripotassium salts of phosphoric acid.

Buffering and emulsifying salt in processed cheese, coffee whiteners, and low-sodium formulations (potassium replaces some sodium).

Provides phosphate and potassium ions. Included in the EFSA group assessment for phosphate additives.

Same phosphate-group considerations as E 339. Potassium intake relevant for renal impairment or potassium-restricted diets at high additive exposure.

Permitted in EU Annex II in specified categories.

Potassium phosphates are used in the U.S. as buffering and emulsifying salts, including in lower-sodium formulations. Dipotassium phosphate is explicitly listed as GRAS under 21 CFR 182.6285, and other potassium phosphate salts have been reviewed by FDA's SCOGS program. Like other phosphate additives, they contribute to total dietary phosphate intake.

Category-specific maximum levels in EU Annex II Part E.

40 mg/kg body weight per day expressed as phosphorus — group ADI for phosphates (E 338–341, E 343, E 450–452) (EFSA, 2019).