Diphosphates
Also known as: E450, Pyrophosphate, diphosphate, E-450, e 450
Diphosphates are authorized in the US and EU, but EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation set a Group ADI for total phosphates of 40 mg/kg bw/day, noting that high consumers (children/adolescents) may exceed this. High phosphorus intake from additives is a concern in chronic kidney disease and may affect cardiovascular health.
What it is
Diphosphates (pyrophosphates), a group of phosphate-based food additives (e.g., disodium, tetrasodium, tetrapotassium).
Leavening acid, emulsifier, sequestrant, moisture/ph regulator.
Why it's flagged
- high phosphorus intake exceeding ADI in some populations
- concern for kidney disease patients
What regulators actually say
"EFSA established a group ADI for phosphates expressed as phosphorus of 40 mg/kg bw per day... high consumers of phosphates are exceeding the ADI."
"Sodium pyrophosphate is generally recognized as safe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS for various sodium/potassium pyrophosphates (e.g., 21 CFR 182.1810, 184.1077)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food additive E450; Group ADI 40 mg/kg bw/day for total phosphates
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