Food grade phosphate · Potassium salt · INS 340(iii)

Food Grade Tripotassium Phosphate (TKP)

Tripotassium phosphate is a strongly alkaline potassium orthophosphate used in selected food systems for buffering, emulsion stabilization, sequestration, emulsification and meat binding.

CAS number: 7778-53-2
INS number: 340(iii)
Formula: K₃PO₄
MOQ: 500 kg

Include the hydrate form, food application, target specification, quantity, destination and documents.

Bespring food grade phosphate products for industrial buyers — Representative Bespring phosphate portfolio image. Request current TKP and packing photographs for qualification.

Reference assayK₃PO₄ content ≥97.0%

Standard packing25 kg bag

Container loadingReference: 22 MT / 20' FCL

QualificationCOA and applicable certificates on request

Direct product answer

What is food grade tripotassium phosphate?

Food grade tripotassium phosphate (TKP), also called tribasic potassium phosphate or tripotassium orthophosphate, has the anhydrous formula K₃PO₄, CAS number 7778-53-2 and INS number 340(iii).

JECFA recognizes anhydrous and hydrated forms. The supplied sheet states at least 97.0% K₃PO₄; buyers should specify the hydrate basis because moisture-related limits and delivered assay can differ.

Functional roles

Why is TKP used in food processing?

TKP is an alkaline phosphate. Its suitability depends on the exact form, dosage, complete formulation, process and applicable food-category rules.

Function group 01

Buffering and sequestration

JECFA lists buffer and sequestrant functions. TKP may be evaluated where pH and mineral interactions influence stability or process performance.

Alkaline buffering
Metal-ion sequestration
Process-pH adjustment

Function group 02

Emulsion and protein systems

The supplied information identifies emulsifier, fortifier, flavoring-agent and meat-binding roles; JECFA identifies emulsion stabilization.

Emulsification and emulsion stability
Meat binding and texture objectives
Formulation-specific nutrient or flavor contribution

Food application screening

How should food manufacturers evaluate TKP?

The supplied information lists functions rather than a closed food-category list. Start with the intended process and measurable acceptance criteria.

Meat products

Evaluate binding, emulsion stability, yield, texture, pH and flavor in the actual meat formulation.

Emulsified foods

Test fat-water stability, protein response and process tolerance at the proposed addition level.

Buffer systems

Confirm solution pH, buffering response and compatibility; TKP is more alkaline than MKP or DKP.

Mineral control

Assess sequestration in the complete system where metal ions affect stability, appearance or processing.

Flavor and fortification objectives

Where these supplied functions are targeted, verify sensory effects, nutrient calculations, labeling and legal use.

Pilot validation

Define target outcomes, control formulation, hydrate form, dosage and test methods before plant-scale use.

Supplied technical data

Food grade TKP reference specification

The values below reproduce the supplied product sheet. They are not a batch COA or a universal compendial standard. Confirm the hydrate form, current signed specification and test methods before approval.

Tripotassium phosphate (TKP) — supplied reference limits
Test item	Specification
Tripotassium phosphate (K₃PO₄) content	≥97.0%
Arsenic (As)	≤0.0003%
Fluoride (F)	≤0.001%
Heavy metals (as Pb)	≤0.0015%
Lead (Pb)	≤0.0002%
Water-insoluble matter	≤0.2%
Loss on ignition (as stated on supplied sheet)	≤8–20%

Hydrate and method check: The supplied loss-on-ignition entry combines a maximum sign with an 8–20% range and does not state the hydrate form. Request the signed specification and confirm the intended criterion and method before using it for acceptance.

Qualification support

Documents and evidence to request

Product documents

Request the current specification/TDS, SDS, hydrate declaration, test methods and representative or batch COA.

Food qualification

Request applicable HACCP, Kosher, Halal and ISO documents and verify the product, site, scope, issuer and validity.

Independent identity reference

Review the FAO/WHO JECFA tripotassium phosphate monograph for identity, forms and functional-use context.

Storage and handling

Protect TKP from moisture and heat

TemperatureThe supplied guidance states storage at no more than 30°C.
EnvironmentTKP is hygroscopic. Keep bags sealed in a cool, dry, ventilated place away from sunlight and contamination.
Workplace controlsFollow the current SDS for alkaline-dust controls, hygiene and personal protection.

Buyer questions

Food grade TKP FAQ

Is TKP the same as KTPP or TKPP?

No. TKP is tripotassium phosphate, K₃PO₄. KTPP is potassium tripolyphosphate, K₅P₃O₁₀, and TKPP is tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, K₄P₂O₇. Each requires a separate specification.

What is food grade TKP used for?

It is evaluated as a buffer, sequestrant, emulsion stabilizer, emulsifier and meat binder in selected food systems. The supplied sheet also identifies fortifier and flavoring-agent roles that require formulation and regulatory review.

Why must the hydrate form be confirmed?

Anhydrous and hydrated TKP have different water content and loss-on-ignition behavior. State the required form and analytical basis in the purchase specification.

What are the packing and minimum order?

The reference is 25 kg per bag, 22 metric tons per 20-foot container and a 500 kg minimum order. Confirm current liner, pallet and loading details.

What details are needed for a TKP quotation?

Provide the hydrate form, food application, target specification, quantity, packing, destination, required documents and delivery date.

Editorial review: Bespring Chemical technical and export team · Last reviewed 2026-07-20

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