Understanding the Benefits of Tricalcium Phosphate in Food Manufacturing
Calcium has long been recognized as beneficial to one’s health when used as a supplement in food manufacturing. Its close ties to the human body for the formation and protection to bones benefits people in every age of development. Why would it be paired with phosphate, though? Does that give it greater benefit? Bell Chem, your food ingredient supplier, is here to answer those questions and many more about how beneficial tricalcium phosphate is for you and why it is listed as an ingredient on so many packages.
Chemically, calcium is a metal bonded to the phosphate ion, which creates a polyatomic nonmetal. Together the two form a strong ionic bond as Ca3(PO4)2. The two micronutrients are crucial in the formation of hydroxyapatite, which strengthens bone’s mechanical resistance and skeletal mineralization. Separately, 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in bones and is a strong indicator of bone health. Phosphorus is present in cellular membranes and nucleic acids and promotes neuromuscular function, signaling between cells, and energy production. Since these vital micronutrients are easily bonded, it’s no wonder they are present in so many food products.
Prevents caking
As a fine white powder with virtually no flavor, tricalcium phosphate prevents caking and clumping in mixes because it acts as a humectant, absorbing up to 10% of its capacity in water. These mixes can include dry pudding mixes, table salt, sugar, pancake mixes, candy mixes, et cetera.
Fortifies foods
Obviously an extremely prevalent role for tricalcium phosphate is in fortification. Any fruit juices, cereals or other breakfast foods with “Fortified with calcium!” on the label likely contain tricalcium phosphate. Even milk must be fortified with calcium and phosphorus because so many of its nutrients are lost during pasteurization and other forms of manufacturing. Along with milk, any product derived from milk – whipped cream, yogurt, buttermilk, cream cheese – also contain tricalcium phosphate.
Provides opacity to plant milks
Because it is cloudy and white when added to a liquid, tricalcium phosphate gives the opacity of milk when added to products such as soymilk or almond milk. Tricalcium phosphate is also an emulsifier, stabilizing the appearance of these beverages and reducing separation.
Solidifies food
In fats used in frying, yogurt, and pudding, tricalcium phosphate binds with gelling agents to solidify the structure of foods.
Lengthens shelf life
Because phosphate is acidic, tricalcium phosphate changes the pH in foods and beverages and can lengthen the overall shelf life.
Bell Chem is a food ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including tricalcium phosphate. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.