Sodium Tripolyphosphate Food Grade

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is a white crystalline powder with the chemical formula Na5P3O10. It is commonly used in the food industry as a preservative, emulsifier, and sequestrant. As a sequestrant, it binds with metal ions such as calcium and magnesium to prevent them from reacting with other food ingredients and causing spoilage or texture degradation.

STPP is classified as "food grade" when it meets certain purity standards set by regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. Food-grade STPP must have a minimum purity of 94%, with no more than 0.03% of iron and no detectable levels of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, or cadmium.

One potential concern with STPP is that it can contribute to eutrophication, or the excessive growth of algae in waterways, if it is not properly treated before being released into the environment. As a result, some countries have restricted its use in certain applications, such as detergents.

In summary, sodium tripolyphosphate food grade is a white crystalline powder used as a preservative, emulsifier, and sequestrant in the food industry. It must meet certain purity standards to be considered food grade, and its environmental impact should be carefully managed.