Vitamins & Minerals: Calcium Phosphate

Calcium phosphate is a mineral compound that occurs naturally in the body and in foods. It is manufactured for use in food by combining calcium and phosphorus, often from sources like limestone or animal bones. It is available in several forms, including monocalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate, and tricalcium phosphate.

Manufacturers add calcium phosphate to foods to fortify them with calcium and phosphorus, which are essential nutrients. It can also act as an anti-caking agent, helping to keep powders free-flowing, and as a dough conditioner in baked goods. It is commonly found in cereals, baked goods, powdered drinks, and dairy products.

Calcium phosphate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of essential minerals, calcium and phosphorus, important for bone health. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated calcium phosphate and found it to be safe. High intakes of phosphorus from supplements can affect calcium balance, but this is not typically a concern from food sources.