Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Potassium polyphosphate (food additive E452(ii)) is a subtype of additive E452 (polyphosphates). It is the potassium salt of polymeric orthophosphoric acid, with the chemical formula K(n+2)O(PO3)n, where n indicates the number of repeating phosphate units in the chain.
Potassium polyphosphate is produced by condensing orthophosphoric acid at high temperatures, followed by neutralization with potassium hydroxide. This process forms linear or cyclic polyphosphate chains where hydrogen atoms are replaced by potassium ions.
E452(ii) exhibits strong moisture-retention properties, prevents crystallization and sediment formation, stabilizes protein structures, and improves product texture. Unlike sodium polyphosphate, the potassium form is preferred in formulations aimed at reducing sodium content in the final product.
In the food industry, E452(ii) is widely used in the production of meat and fish products, semi-finished goods, and sausages, where it enhances the water-binding capacity of tissues, increases product yield, and improves juiciness. In dairy production, the additive stabilizes processed cheeses and prevents emulsion separation.
For more information about the properties and uses of polyphosphates, refer to the article E452 – Polyphosphates.