Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is a common food additive used in various applications:
## Uses in Food Industry
1. *Moisture retention*: STPP helps retain moisture in meat, seafood, and poultry products.
2. *Texture modifier*: It improves texture and reduces drip loss in processed meats.
3. *Emulsifier*: STPP can act as an emulsifier, stabilizing mixtures of oil and water.
## Common Applications
1. *Processed meats*: STPP is used in products like sausages, ham, and bacon.
2. *Seafood*: It's used to retain moisture and texture in frozen seafood.
3. *Canned goods*: STPP can be used in canned seafood and meat products.
## Safety and Regulations
1. *Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)*: STPP is considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies in many countries.
2. *Acceptable daily intake*: However, excessive consumption may have health implications, so it's essential to follow recommended intake levels.
