Ingredient

Water And Sodium Tripolyphosphate

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add this mixture to processed meats and seafood to help them retain moisture. …

What it is

This is a mixture of water and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). STPP is a synthetic compound made from sodium salts and phosphoric acid. It is a white powder that dissolves easily in water.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add this mixture to processed meats and seafood to help them retain moisture. This keeps the products from drying out during cooking or storage, making them appear juicier and heavier. It is commonly found in frozen fish, poultry, and processed meat products.

Health notes

Sodium tripolyphosphate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is also approved by the FDA as a food additive. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated STPP and established an acceptable daily intake. High intake of phosphates can be a concern for individuals with kidney problems, but typical dietary intake from food additives is not considered harmful for most people.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Products containing Water And Sodium Tripolyphosphate

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.