Food Ingredients: Why Add Pentanatrium Triphosphate, etc.

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In summary, food makers often add ingredients such as pentanatrium triphosphate, blue vitriol, pentahydrate, manganese sulfate, monohydrate, potassium iodide, and zinc sulfate to their products for various purposes. These ingredients may serve as sequestrants, texturizers, or preservatives to improve the quality and shelf life of the food. However, some of these compounds may have limited nutritional value and should be used in low concentrations. Blue vitriol is mainly used as a fungicide and is not commonly used in food manufacturing. As for pentanatrium triphosphate, it serves as both a sequestrant and texturizer, binding with metal ions and modifying
  • #1
Osviux
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I was wondering why food makers add these ingredients into the food they make:pentanatrium triphosphate, blue vitriol, pentahydrate, manganese sulfate, monohydrate, potassium iodide, zinc sulfate?
Anyone?
 
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  • #2
Some of the names you have types are nonsense, and refer to hydrated states, not actual compounds. You may want to read up on "Hydrates".
The only two I know are used in food are KI and zinc sulphate, due to their ability to provide small nutritional value at low concentrations.
Blue Vitriol is a fungicide, but I have never heard of it being used in food manufacturing...
 
  • #3
Pentranatrium triphosphate (aka Pentasodium triphosphate) is a sequestrant and texturizer. It binds with metal ions in order to prevent oxidation. A texturizer is like a thickener and as the name implies, it only there to modify the texture (although pentasodium triphosphate may serve both purposes at once).

http://www.fao.org/ag/agn/jecfa-additives/specs/Monograph1/Additive-308.pdf
 
  • #4
aroc91 said:
Pentranatrium triphosphate (aka Pentasodium triphosphate) is a sequestrant and texturizer. It binds with metal ions in order to prevent oxidation. A texturizer is like a thickener and as the name implies, it only there to modify the texture (although pentasodium triphosphate may serve both purposes at once).

http://www.fao.org/ag/agn/jecfa-additives/specs/Monograph1/Additive-308.pdf

It is used as a component of meat preservative to retain moisture.
 
  • #5


I can provide some insight into the use of these ingredients in food production. Pentanatrium triphosphate, also known as sodium triphosphate, is commonly used as a preservative and emulsifier in food. It helps to prevent spoilage and maintain the texture of certain foods. Blue vitriol, or copper sulfate, is often used as a fungicide to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria in food. Manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate are both sources of essential minerals that may be added to food to meet nutritional requirements. Potassium iodide is also added to food as a source of iodine, an essential nutrient for proper thyroid function. Overall, these ingredients are used to improve the shelf life, texture, and nutritional value of food products. However, it is important for food manufacturers to use these ingredients in appropriate amounts and to follow safety guidelines to ensure the safety and quality of the food we consume.
 

1. Why do manufacturers add pentanatrium triphosphate to food?

Manufacturers add pentanatrium triphosphate (also known as sodium tripolyphosphate) to food as a food additive or preservative. It helps to extend the shelf life of food by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. It also helps to maintain the texture and appearance of food products.

2. Is pentanatrium triphosphate safe to consume?

Yes, pentanatrium triphosphate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has been extensively studied and is considered safe for consumption in small amounts.

3. What types of food can pentanatrium triphosphate be found in?

Pentanatrium triphosphate can be found in a variety of processed and packaged foods such as processed meats, canned seafood, frozen fish, processed cheeses, and some bakery products. It is also used in some cleaning products and detergents.

4. Is pentanatrium triphosphate a natural ingredient?

No, pentanatrium triphosphate is not a natural ingredient. It is a synthetic compound that is made by chemically combining sodium carbonate and phosphoric acid.

5. Are there any potential health concerns associated with consuming pentanatrium triphosphate?

While pentanatrium triphosphate is considered safe for consumption, there are some concerns about its potential impact on the environment. It can contribute to water pollution and has been linked to harmful algal blooms. Additionally, consuming large amounts of processed foods that contain pentanatrium triphosphate may not be beneficial for overall health and can contribute to a diet high in sodium and preservatives.

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