E340: Dipotassium phosphate
What is E340?
Dipotassium phosphate, also known as dipotassium hydrogen phosphate and listed as E340(ii), is a mildly alkaline salt of phosphoric acid and potassium. It is a white, water-soluble powder.
Origin and production
It is produced by partially neutralising purified phosphoric acid, from mined phosphate rock, with potassium hydroxide.
Why is it used?
Dipotassium phosphate is a buffer that keeps the pH stable. In coffee creamers and plant-based milk alternatives such as oat drinks, it helps prevent proteins from curdling when they meet hot, acidic coffee, and it also stabilises protein shakes and powdered drinks.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Dipotassium phosphate is mineral-derived and generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is not normally a halal or kosher concern.
Safety and regulation
Dipotassium phosphate is authorised in the EU as part of the potassium phosphates group and was included in EFSA's re-evaluation of phosphates, which set a group acceptable daily intake for phosphorus.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E340
