Distarch Phosphate

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Distarch phosphate (also known as disodium uridine phosphate) is a food additive that belongs to the group of modified starches. Modified starches are modified to be more stable in water, high temperatures or acids than these types of starches are naturally. Distarch phosphate is the product of the reaction of starch with phosphoric anhydride in sodium hydroxide. This process improves its usefulness in the food industry.

Distarch phosphate is commonly used in many food products for its ability to stabilize and thicken. It is used, for example, in soup mixes, ready meals, ice cream, yoghurt, sauces, dressings or confectionery. However, in addition to the food industry, it is also used in the cosmetics industry, specifically in lotions and creams, where it acts as a thickening agent. The safety of distarch phosphate is regulated by many international health organisations, including the European Food Safety Authority. Regardless of what name is used, it is important to note that distarch phosphate is a safe and commonly used additive.