What Is the Name of E341 and its Common Food Additive Forms?

January 4, 2026 •

2 min read

E341 is the European food additive number assigned to calcium phosphates, a group of mineral salts that includes three distinct forms, each with unique properties. These compounds play important functional roles in the food industry, from preventing clumping to providing essential minerals. Understanding the different types is key to deciphering many ingredient labels.

Quick Summary

E341 is the collective name for calcium phosphates, which function as food additives for roles like anti-caking, leavening, and mineral fortification. This group includes monocalcium, dicalcium, and tricalcium phosphate, each with specific applications across various food products.

Key Points

E341 is a group name: E341 represents the family of calcium phosphates, not a single substance.
Three primary forms: The group includes monocalcium phosphate (E341(i)), dicalcium phosphate (E341(ii)), and tricalcium phosphate (E341(iii)).
Tricalcium phosphate is an anticaking agent: This form (E341(iii)) is widely used in powdered foods to prevent clumping.
Monocalcium phosphate is a leavening agent: This form (E341(i)) is a key ingredient in baking powder, helping baked goods rise.
Calcium phosphates are nutritional supplements: All forms are a source of calcium and phosphorus for fortified foods and supplements.
Considered safe by regulators: Global food safety authorities, including the FDA and EFSA, have deemed E341 safe for consumption within regulated levels.

The E-Number E341: Understanding Calcium Phosphates

The European Union's system of E-numbers provides a straightforward way to identify food additives. E341 is a group number referring to the calcium salts of phosphoric acid, collectively known as calcium phosphates. This group encompasses three distinct forms, unlike many E-numbers that represent a single compound. Calcium phosphates are also found naturally and are the main component of bones and teeth.

The Three Distinct Forms of E341

E341(i): Monocalcium Phosphate

Monocalcium phosphate (MCP), or monobasic calcium phosphate, has the chemical formula $Ca(H_2PO_4)_2$. It is highly soluble and acidic, making it essential in baking as a leavening agent. When mixed with baking soda, it releases carbon dioxide, causing doughs and batters to rise.

E341(ii): Dicalcium Phosphate

Dicalcium phosphate (DCP), or dibasic calcium phosphate, has the chemical formula $CaHPO_4$. This form is less soluble and is mainly used to add calcium and phosphorus to foods and animal feed. It can also act as a conditioning agent.

E341(iii): Tricalcium Phosphate

Tricalcium phosphate (TCP), also known as tribasic calcium phosphate, is represented by the formula $Ca_3(PO_4)_2$. It is a white, insoluble powder that works well as an anti-caking agent in powdered products by absorbing moisture. To learn more about tricalcium phosphate, including its uses as a food additive, refer to {Link: foodadditives.net https://foodadditives.net/anticaking-agent/tricalcium-phosphate/}.

A Comparison of the E341 Family


Characteristic	E341(i) Monocalcium Phosphate	E341(ii) Dicalcium Phosphate	E341(iii) Tricalcium Phosphate
Chemical Formula	$Ca(H_2PO_4)_2$	$CaHPO_4$	$Ca_3(PO_4)_2$
Primary Use	Leavening agent in baked goods	Nutritional supplement	Anti-caking agent
Solubility in Water	Highly soluble	Sparingly soluble	Insoluble
Functional Role	Acidic, provides rising action	Mineral fortification	Anti-caking and mineral fortification

Functional Roles in the Food Industry

The various forms of E341 are used for several purposes in food manufacturing. These include anti-caking, leavening, nutritional supplementing, acidity regulation, emulsifying salt, firming, and whitening.

Safety and Regulation of E341

Regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA have approved calcium phosphates as safe food additives. In the U.S., they are classified as GRAS. EFSA has set an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) and found phosphates to be of low toxicity. While animal studies at high doses have shown some effects, normal human consumption levels are considered safe.

Non-Food Applications of Calcium Phosphates

Calcium phosphates are also used outside of food:

Dental Products: Found in some toothpastes.
Pharmaceuticals: Used in tablets and as drug carriers.
Fertilizers: Provide nutrients for plants.
Biomaterials: Tricalcium phosphate is used in bone repair.

Conclusion

E341 is the collective name for calcium phosphates, a group of versatile food additives. The three primary forms—monocalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate, and tricalcium phosphate—each offer distinct functionalities, from aiding in baking to preventing clumping. Their widespread use and safety are supported by regulatory bodies globally. For more details on tricalcium phosphate's uses as a food additive, refer to {Link: foodadditives.net https://foodadditives.net/anticaking-agent/tricalcium-phosphate/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

The functions of E341 vary depending on the specific calcium phosphate used. Common functions include serving as an anti-caking agent in powders, a leavening agent in baked goods, and a nutritional supplement for calcium and phosphorus.

No, E341 is a collective name for calcium phosphates. Tricalcium phosphate is one of the three forms of E341, specifically designated as E341(iii).

Yes, E341 and its forms are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and approved by the EFSA for use in food. The EFSA has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for phosphates and concluded they have low toxicity.

Yes, E341 and its forms are typically sourced from mineral origins and do not contain animal products. Therefore, they are considered vegan.

E341 is found in a wide range of products including baking powder, cake mixes, powdered milk, spices, cheese, and nutritional supplements. Its specific application depends on the type of calcium phosphate used.

The main differences are in their chemical formula, solubility, and primary function. Monocalcium phosphate is soluble and acidic, used for leavening. Dicalcium phosphate is sparingly soluble and used for nutrition. Tricalcium phosphate is insoluble and used as an anti-caking agent.

E341 is generally safe. However, excessive intake of phosphates has been studied in animals, showing potential effects like nephrocalcinosis. These are not typically observed with normal consumption levels.