Usage in food
Sodium phosphate can be found in fast food, deli meats, processed meats, canned tuna, baked goods, and other processed foods. It provides multiple functions:
- It thickens food. It can stabilize the texture of processed foods, such as mashed potatoes.
- It can treat meat and meat products. It helps keep deli meats and bacon moist and prevents spoilage.
- It is a leavening agent. It helps to ferment the dough in commercially prepared cakes and breads and cake mixes.
- It is an emulsifier. It acts as a stabilizer, allowing oil and water to mix together in certain types of food, such as processed cheese.
- It can balance the pH value in processed foods. Stabilize the acid-base balance, extend the shelf life, and improve the taste.
Is it safe to eat?
Food grade sodium phosphate is classified by the FDA as GRAS, which means "generally recognized as safe." This may be due to the relatively low content of sodium phosphate added to processed foods.
A study found that when sodium phosphate is used as a food additive, its health effects are different from those of natural phosphate. This is because the way it is absorbed by the body is different. According to the abstract, high levels of phosphate may increase the mortality rate of the general public as well as those suffering from kidney and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have linked high phosphate levels with accelerated aging and vascular damage. Researchers recommend that people eat foods that contain natural phosphate, rather than foods with added sodium phosphate.
A study found that when sodium phosphate is used as a food additive, its health effects are different from those of natural phosphate. This is because the way it is absorbed by the body is different. According to the abstract, high levels of phosphate may increase the mortality rate of the general public as well as those suffering from kidney and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have linked high phosphate levels with accelerated aging and vascular damage. Researchers recommend that people eat foods that contain natural phosphate, rather than foods with added sodium phosphate.
Side effects of excessive sodium phosphate may include:
- Vomit
- Headache
- Decreased urine output
- Bloating
- stomach ache
- Dizziness
- Arrhythmia
Who should avoid sodium phosphate?
Discuss your use of sodium phosphate with your doctor, especially if you are taking it as a supplement or eating large amounts of processed food or fast food.
People with certain diseases should avoid taking this substance. These include:
- Kidney disease
- Intestinal tear or blockage
- Colitis or slow bowel movements
- heart failure
- Allergy to sodium phosphate
If you are currently taking certain medications, your doctor may also recommend that you reduce your intake. Before taking it, be sure to discuss your medication history with your doctor, including the herbal supplements you use.
Foods containing sodium phosphate
Foods containing natural sodium phosphate include:
- Nuts and beans
- Meat
- fish
- poultry
- Egg
Foods that may have added sodium phosphate include:
- Bacon
- Deli meat
- fast food
- Processed foods, such as ready-to-eat foods
- Commercially prepared baked goods and cake mixes
- Canned tuna
Generalize
Sodium phosphate is naturally found in many foods. It is also added to food to maintain freshness, change texture, and achieve various other effects. The FDA considers sodium phosphate to be safe, but some people should avoid it, including those with kidney disease. If you are concerned about the intake of sodium phosphate or before using it as a supplement, be sure to consult your doctor.