E452(I) · Sodium Hexametaphosphate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E452(I)?
Sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) is an inorganic polyphosphate salt used as an emulsifier, thickener, and sequestrant in foods such as processed cheese, seafood, and meat products. It binds metal ions and proteins, improving texture and stability and preventing mineral precipitation (e.g., cloudiness in beverages).
Also appears on labels as: Sodium Hexametaphosphate, SHMP, Sodium hexametaphosphate (NaPO3)6, E452(i), E 452(i), E-452(i), Sodium polyphosphate, Food additive sodium hexametaphosphate, Hexametaphosphate of sodium, Sodium metaphosphate, Sodium hexametaphosphate powder, Natrio heksametafosfatas.
What the evidence says
- Excessive phosphate intake can contribute to mineral imbalances, particularly affecting calcium and magnesium absorption.
- People with kidney disease should be cautious with high total phosphate intake.
- Generally considered safe within the established Acceptable Daily Intake for total phosphates.
Frequently asked questions
Is E452(I) safe?
Our overall verdict for E452(I) (Sodium Hexametaphosphate) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E452(I) vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium Hexametaphosphate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E452(I) and why is it used?
Sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) is an inorganic polyphosphate salt used as an emulsifier, thickener, and sequestrant in foods such as processed cheese, seafood, and meat products. It binds metal ions and proteins, improving texture and stability and preventing mineral precipitation (e.g., cloudiness in beverages).
Does E452(I) contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium Hexametaphosphate.
Watch E452(I)
Get an email if the EFSA or FDA position on Sodium Hexametaphosphate changes, or when new research is added to this page.
EatMatrix reads any ingredient list with your camera and flags every additive instantly.
This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.