Sodium Tripolyphosphate (E451(i))

Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP)

Sodium tripolyphosphate is an inorganic phosphate compound that excels at binding water and metals for improved functionality. In the food industry, it enhances water retention, improves texture and yield in proteins, and acts as a chelating agent to bind metal ions, preventing discoloration and extending shelf life.

Food Industry Applications

• Processed meats and poultry: Increases water-holding capacity in hams, sausages, burgers, and nuggets for juicier texture, better sliceability, and higher yield.

• Seafood products: Stabilizes color and texture in shrimp, fish fillets, and surimi by preventing drip loss and protein denaturation during freezing and thawing.

• Canned meats and soups: Improves viscosity and stability in pet foods, canned tuna, and broths while chelating metals to maintain clarity.

• Dairy products: Acts as an emulsifier in processed cheeses and dips to prevent separation and enhance smoothness.

• Bakery and dough products: Functions as a dough conditioner in frozen doughs to improve handling and volume.

Other Industry Applications

In detergents and cleaners, it softens water and boosts cleaning efficiency by sequestering minerals; in water treatment, it prevents scale and corrosion; in ceramics, it acts as a deflocculant for slurries.