Tripotassium phosphate

Tripotassium phosphate is a chemical compound with the chemical formula K3PO4. The molar mass is around 212.27 g/mol. It is made of potassium and phosphate ions. It is a food additive that is used as an emulsifying agent in meat, dry cereals, sauces, cheese, and whipped cream to decrease acidity.[1]

Production

It can be made when potassium (metal or basic compound) reacts with phosphoric acid along with water. For example, the reaction between excess potassium hydroxide and phosphoric acid.

The balanced chemical equation is:
3KOH + H3PO4 โ†’ K3PO4 + 3H2O

It can also be made when potassium carbonate reacts with phosphoric acid to make tripotassium phosphate, water, and carbon dioxide.

The balanced chemical equation is:
3K2CO3 + 2H3PO4 โ†’ 2K3PO4 + 3H2O + 3CO2

References

  1. โ†‘ Han, James (2020-08-03). "What is Tripotassium Phosphate E340(iii) in Food and Functions in Cereals?". Retrieved 2026-03-06.