12 water trisodium phosphate (chemical formula Na₃PO₄·12H₂O) is a common phosphate that is widely used in food additives, cleaning agents, water treatment, and other fields. It is relatively safe to humans under reasonable use, but there may be health risks from excessive exposure or misuse. Here's the breakdown
1. Main use
Food industry: As a food additive (E339iii), used to adjust pH value, emulsification stability (such as cheese, meat products).
Detergent: As a washing aid, enhance the decontamination ability (such as washing powder, dishwasher detergent).
Water treatment: Used for boiler water softening, anti-scaling.
Industrial applications: metal surface treatment, textile printing and dyeing.
2. Potential health risks
(1) Food grade trisodium phosphate (moderate use is safer)
Normal food dosage (in accordance with GB 25565-2010 standard) generally does not cause harm to the human body.
Excessive intake may affect calcium and phosphorus metabolism, resulting in:
Hypocalcemia (long-term diet high in phosphorus may interfere with calcium absorption).
Renal function burden (high phosphorus intake may increase renal excretion pressure).
(2) Industrial grade trisodium phosphate (with caution)
Skin/eye contact: High concentration solutions may cause irritation, burns (especially undiluted powders or concentrated solutions).
Ingestion: Large intake may cause:
Digestive tract irritation (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain).
Electrolyte disturbance (hypernatrium, hyperphosphatemia).
(3) Long-term exposure risk (occupational exposure)
Dust inhalation: May irritate the respiratory tract, cause coughing or inflammation (wear a protective mask).
Chronic effects: Long-term high dose exposure may affect bone health (imbalance of phosphorus and calcium).
3. Suggestions for safe use
Food use:
It is used in strict accordance with national food additive standards (the limit in general food is 0.5~5g/kg).
Avoid long-term excessive intake of processed foods containing phosphates (such as ham, instant noodles).
Household cleaning:
Dilute and avoid direct contact with skin or eyes.
Keep out of reach of children.
Industrial use:
Wear gloves, goggles and a dust mask.
Keep the working environment ventilated.
4. First aid measures
Ingestion: Gargle immediately, dilute with milk or water, do not induce vomiting, medical observation.
Skin contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes.
Eye contact: Flush immediately with saline or water and seek medical attention.