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
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.
Reference assayK3PO4 content ≥97.0%
Standard packing25 kg bag
Container loadingReference: 22 MT / 20' FCL
QualificationCOA and applicable certificates on request
Product overview
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 commercial reference specification lists 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.
Emulsion and protein systems
Evaluate emulsification, nutrient or flavor contribution and meat-binding targets in the actual food; 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?
Select applications by the intended process, destination-market rules 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 nutrient or flavor contribution is 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.
Commercial specifications
Food grade TKP reference specification
These commercial reference limits are separate from batch COA results and regulatory requirements. Agree the hydration form, methods and acceptance criteria in the signed specification.
| 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 (hydrate and method unspecified) | ≤8–20% |
Hydrate and method check: The loss-on-ignition reference “≤8–20%” combines a maximum sign with a range, without identifying the hydrate. It is not a complete acceptance criterion. Define the exact form, comparator, limit, temperature and duration in the signed specification before batch acceptance.
Qualification support
Product documents and quality requirements
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
- TemperatureStore at no more than 30°C under the stated storage conditions.
- 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. Nutrient and flavor contributions require separate formulation and regulatory evaluation.
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.
Related potassium phosphates
Compare adjacent food-grade options
Dipotassium Phosphate (DKP)
INS 340(ii), a less alkaline potassium orthophosphate for selected food systems.
Monopotassium Phosphate (MKP)
INS 340(i), used in selected buffering, culture and fermentation applications.
Potassium Tripolyphosphate (KTPP)
A condensed phosphate with different composition, functionality and specification.
Specification-led sourcing
Request a food grade TKP quote
Share the details needed to review technical fit, documents and delivery.
- Hydrate form, application and specification
- Quantity, packing and destination
- Required certificates and delivery timing