Food additive E341(ii) belongs to the group called calcium phosphates. This substance is inorganic and occurs in nature quite often. For the production of additives, the interaction of certain substances is expected. In the case of E341 (ii), these are orthophosphate acid, calcium hydroxide and minerals.
Calcium orthophosphate is a popular antioxidant that has the properties of a stabilizer, color fixer, leavening agent, emulsifier and anti-caking agent. This antioxidant is used in various spheres of human life. The substance itself is a white friable powder that dissolves in acids, but is resistant to water and ethanol.
The natural location of calcium orthophosphate are minerals: apatite, phosphorite, hydroxyapatite. The peculiarity of this additive is that it has the ability to slowly absorb ammonia from the air. Also, this substance does not show resistance to temperatures.
The effect of the additive on the human body
Studies of the E341(ii) additive have been going on for quite a long period. Some evidence suggests that they began to study the harm and benefits of the supplement back in the 70s of the 20th century. It is worth noting that there is no evidence that the additive is dangerous. There are researchers who believe that E341 (ii) is still harmful to the body, especially in large doses. As a result, digestive disorders may occur. There is real evidence that when eating food with the addition of E341 (ii), people have gastrointestinal diseases. In addition, calcium orthophosphate can provoke a sharp increase in blood cholesterol, which is harmful to health.
Despite some disadvantages of the supplement, it is worth noting the fact that calcium phosphates are very important for many processes in the human body. They play the most important role for bones and teeth.
Additive application
Calcium phosphates are used in large volumes in completely different areas. Food manufacturers add this substance to bakery products, meat, fish, condensed milk, milk powder and various convenience foods. It is also added to some alcoholic beverages and drinks for athletes. Contain the additive E341 (ii) and processed cheeses, tea and breakfast cereals.
No less popular is the use of additives in agricultural industries. Calcium orthophosphate is added to animal feed and used as a fertilizer. Also, this additive is used in the production of glass, ceramics and abrasive material. Additive E341 (ii) can often be seen in the composition of toothpastes and powders.
It is worth noting that this additive is allowed in most countries, and is used, most often, as a food supplement.