Phosphorus is an essential element of life. It exists in many forms in the body, but the common form is phosphate. Phosphate is a molecule consisting of phosphorus and oxygen (PO₄^3-), which is added to various foods like salt. Phosphate can be used as preservative, thickener and starter. Sodium hexametaphosphate is a kind of food additive which is widely used in food processing.

In the past, because illegal additives have cast a great shadow on food additives, Chuandong Chemical today gives you a correct understanding of the role of sodium hexametaphosphate in food processing.

1. Sealing of metal ions

Sodium hexametaphosphate can chelate with metal ions Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺ in solution to form soluble chelates, which can prevent food from discoloration and spoilage, prevent or delay the oxidation of unsaturated fat, inhibit the growth of microorganisms and play a role of antisepsis and bacteriostasis.

2. Emulsification and Dispersion

Sodium hexametaphosphate can disperse or stabilize the incompatible substances in water to prevent the adhesion and condensation of suspension, such as emulsification of fat and protein.

3. Buffering effect

Sodium hexametaphosphate can effectively stabilize the liquid phase in the medium within a certain range of PH value, which can make food taste more delicious, so it is widely used as a food regulator.

4. Protein Action

Food grade sodium hexametaphosphate can enhance protein and glue globulin, so it can increase water and water retention of meat products, improve water penetration, promote the softening of food and improve the quality of food, and maintain the good flavor of food.

Manufacturers producing food additives need to pass a series of food safety certifications before they can be put into production. Chongqing Chuandong Chemical Group is a manufacturer with food additive production license. The food grade sodium hexametaphosphate is produced by using thermal-process food grade phosphoric acid and soda ash. It has less heavy metal content.