Ingredient Information

Function

Ferric orthophosphate is used extensively in food fortification. It is constituted in powder form in order to enrich various products such as bread, cereal, rice, sugar syrups and macaroni. It is also employed to supplement animal feed.

Other Use and Industries

Ferric orthophosphate (phosphate) is widely known to be used as a molluscicide, mainly used to kill slugs and snail.

Health Effects

Ferric orthophosphate can be implemented to treat nose bleeds and reduce the risk of hemorrhages. And since it is a form of Iron III, it can sometimes be used as a nutritional supplement. In addition, ferric orthophosphate does not cause rancidity in food. Overall, this substance is a form of iron supplement which is regarded as safe; however, consuming more than the recommended dosage can be unsafe, especially for children. On another health note, in 2007, ferric orthophosphate was prohibited from use as a food ingredient in the European Union in directive 2002/46/EC.

Origins

Ferric orthophosphate's chemical formula is FePO4xH2O, and as such it makes up a tasteless and odorless powder. It is also known as Iron (III) phosphate, which contains 26% to 32% of the element iron.