Tricalcium phosphate (tricalcium orthophosphate) is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid, INS 341(iii) (E341(iii)). It is a white, tasteless powder that barely dissolves in water. Food-grade material is made by reacting phosphoric acid with lime, and the same compound occurs naturally in phosphate rock and in bone.
Its main role in snacks is as an anticaking agent: its fine particles coat seasoning powders and soak up moisture, so salt, sugar and spice blends stay free-flowing instead of clumping in the bag or in the factory. It can also act as an acidity regulator and adds a little calcium. In Snack Jack - Original Flavor, a fried green pea snack, it is part of the seasoning, and the Thai-language label lists it explicitly as an anticaking agent.
Calcium phosphates are approved food additives that JECFA evaluates as part of the phosphate group. Tricalcium phosphate is not an allergen.
