E341: Dicalcium phosphate

What is E341?

Dicalcium phosphate (E341ii), also called calcium hydrogen phosphate, is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid. It is a white, tasteless powder that is insoluble in water.

Origin and production

It is made by reacting phosphoric acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate. The phosphoric acid is derived from mined phosphate rock.

Why is it used?

It acts as a leavening acid in baking mixes, an anti-caking agent and a source of calcium and phosphorus for fortification. It is also a common filler and binder in dietary supplement tablets, and appears in cereals, snacks and cake mixes.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Dicalcium phosphate is mineral in origin and generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians; historically some calcium phosphates were made from bones, so certification can confirm the source if needed.

Safety and regulation

Calcium phosphates are authorised in the EU and were re-evaluated by EFSA with other phosphate additives, which set a group acceptable intake for phosphorus.

Common in