Digestoa
Additive · Acidity regulator

Potassium phosphates (E340)

Potassium phosphates (E340) is an acidity regulator that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include excess phosphate intake.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypeAcidity regulator
Found insoft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods
ConcernsExcess phosphate intake

What is Potassium phosphates?

Potassium phosphates (E340) is an acidity regulator — used to control acidity and balance flavour.

Is Potassium phosphates bad for you?

Digestoa flags Potassium phosphates as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including excess phosphate intake. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Potassium phosphates?

Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Potassium phosphates. But it's a useful flag: when you see E340 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Choose less-processed products with short, recognisable ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E340 the same as Potassium phosphates?
Yes — E340 is the international additive (E-number) code for Potassium phosphates.
Is Potassium phosphates bad for you?
Digestoa flags Potassium phosphates (E340) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as excess phosphate intake.
What are the side effects of Potassium phosphates?
Reported concerns include: Excess phosphate intake.
What foods contain Potassium phosphates?
Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods.
How can I avoid Potassium phosphates?
Check the ingredients list for "Potassium phosphates" or "E340", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related acidity regulator additives

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.