Similar to other various compounds, monocalcium phosphate is a substance that doesn’t harm human health and wellbeing. It’s an inorganic compound that exists in two ways, anhydrous and monohydrate.
Monocalcium phosphate is the byproduct of fusing calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate with phosphoric acid. It is usually present in daily life accessories. Let’s find out where monocalcium phosphate exists in your house!
Uses of Monocalcium Phosphate in Different Fields
Food
monocalcium phosphate is common in bakery products. It reacts with baking soda in the presence of water and produces carbon dioxide giving the product the needed volume and rise. It is a common ingredient in cookies, pancakes, and self-rising flour. Bakers mix it with slow-acting acids to produce double-rising baking powders that enhancing the fluffiness.
So, next time you savor your birthday cake or a lava pastry, monocalcium phosphate may be responsible for its delicious texture.
Food Preservation
monocalcium phosphate doesn’t only make a good rise but also helps preserve the food longer. Its chemical nature retains the texture and firmness of the item and enhances the flavor. It is commonly mixed in frozen foods for preservation.
Animal Food
Monocalcium phosphate decomposes into calcium and phosphorus-rich compounds. These are further used in the preparation of animal food. The calcium in the food helps strengthen the skeleton and tissues.
Phosphorus is responsible for stimulating DNA growth. Moreover, it also helps to improve metabolism and protein production in the body. It fulfills the mineral deficiencies and improves the reproductive system as well.
Fertilizers
Phosphorus and calcium compounds are equally beneficial for plants as well. The phosphorus present in these fertilizers produces the needed amount of nitrogen. Hence, eliminating the need for a purely nitrogen fertilizer.
Works as an Emulsifier
Monocalcium phosphate also has applications as an emulsifier. Since it helps in liquid expansion, it has significant importance in beverage making. It also helps prepare emulsifiers that produce salad dressings, ice creams, and other creamy products.
Healthcare and Medicines
Healthcare and medicine are other industries benefiting from the wonders of monocalcium phosphate. It works as a bulking and buffering agent. Moreover, it is also present in self-care products.
Monocalcium phosphate is beneficial for the skin. It hydrates dry skin and helps get an even skin tone. Cosmetics with monocalcium phosphate begin to improve the skin quality in a little while.
Is Consuming Monocalcium Phosphate Harmful?
The compound has many applications in the food industry. Naturally, one wonders about the safety of the product. According to the Health and Food Authorities, using Monocalcium Phosphate in food and beverages is perfectly safe.
Consuming monocalcium phosphate helps strengthen the teeth and bones of the cattle. Moreover, it promotes plant growth as well. Although, it’s small amount of consumption is good. But using it excessively may cause health issues. Therefore, maintaining a balance is advised.
Conclusion
Monocalcium phosphate is the result of calcium compounds and phosphorus acid. And these compounds occur naturally, so there is nothing to worry about. A large number of bakery products and emulsifiers use monocalcium phosphate. It also helps cure skin dryness and ensures a brighter skin tone.
