Tricalcium phosphate (sometimes abbreviated TCP) is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid with the chemical formula Ca3(PO4)2.
Contents
Uses
Tricalcium phosphate is used in powdered spices as an anticaking agent. It is also found in baby powder.
Calcium phosphate is also a raising agent (food additive) E341. As a mineral salt found in rocks and bones, it is used in cheese products.
It is also used as a nutritional supplement and occurs naturally in cow milk, although the most common and economical forms for supplementation are calcium carbonate (which should be taken with food) and calcium citrate (which can be taken without food). There is some debate about the different bioavailabilities of the different calcium salts.
Benefits
Calcium supplements have been found to have positive effects on preventing bone loss as we age. It is important to know that calcium is best absorbed when combined with Vitamin D.
Cautions
Multiple studies regarding its place in industrial, medical, and agricultural applications have shown that tricalcium phosphate is safe, for both human and animal consumption. It has been concluded that calcium phosphates can aid in bone and mineral regeneration, and future biomedical applications are promising.
As a nutritional supplement, tricalcium phosphate is comparable to other calcium. Tricalcium phosphate has also found a proven place in industrial and agricultural applications. With widespread availability and low cost, it will likely continue to be used for its current applications while new ones are being explored.
Interactions
No interactions are known. Please consult your pharmacist.
Other names
Tribasic calcium phosphate and bone phosphate of lime (BPL)
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tricalcium_phosphate#Uses
Healthline, http://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/what-is-tricalcium-phosphate#Use3