E452 · Polyphosphates

What is E452?

Polyphosphates are chains of phosphate units used in food as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and moisture-retention agents. They are widely used in processed meats, seafood, and dairy products to keep them juicy and improve texture, and in some cheeses to aid melting. They also help retain moisture during cooking of meat and fish. Like other phosphate additives, they add to total dietary phosphate intake.

Also appears on labels as: Polyphosphates, Polyphosphate, E452, E 452, E-452, E452(i), E452(i–v), E452(i-v), E452i, E452ii, E452iii, E452iv.

What the evidence says

• Contributes to total dietary phosphate load; high combined intake from additives is linked to cardiovascular and bone health concerns.
• People with chronic kidney disease are typically advised to limit phosphate additives.
• Considered safe for the general population within regulatory limits.

Research behind the verdict

1. Re‐evaluation of phosphoric acid–phosphates – di‐, tri‐ and polyphosphates (E 338–341, E 343, E 450–452) as food additives and the safety of proposed extension of use — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), EFSA Journal (2019). The EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) provides a scientific opinion on phosphoric acid-phosphates including diphosphates (E 450) and polyphosphates (E 452). The Panel noted that phosphate intake from food additives may contribute significantly to total dietary phosphate exposure. The Panel recommended establishing group ADI values and emphasized the need to consider total dietary phosphate intake.[caution]
2. Hexametaphosphate, a Common Food Additive, Aggregated the Hen Egg White Lysozyme — Multiple Authors, PMC Biochemistry (2023). Study examining the effects of hexametaphosphate (E452), a common food additive and polyphosphate polymer. Research indicates strong association between hyperphosphatemia and mortality, emphasizing the importance of assessing how polyphosphates as food additives affect quality of life. The study highlights concerns about dietary phosphate intake, particularly relevant for cardiovascular and renal health.[caution]
3. A common food additive (E452), hexametaphosphate, denatures proteins — Multiple Authors, Journal of Food Composition and Analysis (2023). Research examining the effects of hexametaphosphate (E452) on protein denaturation. Study links hyperphosphatemia to renal diseases, cardiovascular events, and general population mortality. The research emphasizes that dietary intake of phosphates is a major health concern, particularly regarding processed foods containing inorganic phosphate additives.[caution]

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