Also known as: Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate, Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, E341(ii), INS 341(ii)
What is Dicalcium Phosphate (DCP)?
Dicalcium phosphate (DCP) (commonly calcium hydrogen phosphate, CAS 7757-93-9) is an inorganic calcium phosphate supplied mainly as CaHPO₄ (anhydrous) or CaHPO₄·2H₂O (dihydrate). It serves as a critical calcium and phosphorus source in animal nutrition and as a regulated food additive (INS/E-number 341(ii)) when produced to strict impurity limits.
At Goway Chemical, we supply DCP grades tailored for high-performance animal feed, food processing, and pharmaceutical excipient applications, ensuring full compliance with FAO/WHO, FDA, and USP standards.
Technical Specifications & Physical Properties
Our DCP is manufactured under strict quality control. Below are the typical specifications for our Food and Feed grades.
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range | Standard / Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| CAS No. (Anhydrous) | 7757-93-9 | JECFA / FCC |
| CAS No. (Dihydrate) | 7789-77-7 | Chemical Identity |
| Molecular Formula | CaHPO₄ (Anhydrous) CaHPO₄·2H₂O (Dihydrate) |
– |
| Purity (Dry Basis) | 98.0% – 102.0% | JECFA / USP |
| Phosphorus (P) Content | ≥ 18.0% | Titration |
| Calcium (Ca) Content | ≥ 23.0% | Titration |
| Fluoride (F) Limit | ≤ 50 mg/kg (Food Grade) | JECFA / FDA |
| Lead (Pb) Limit | ≤ 4 mg/kg | JECFA |
| pH (1% Slurry) | 6.8 – 7.2 | USP / Internal QC |
| Solubility | Sparingly soluble in water | Observation |
Note: Specific limits for Arsenic (As) and Heavy Metals vary by grade (Feed vs. Food vs. Pharma). Contact our engineering team for the full Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Chemical Behavior & Mechanism
- Acid-Dependent Bioavailability: DCP is sparingly soluble in neutral water but dissolves readily in acidic environments (e.g., the stomach). This ensures efficient release of Calcium and Phosphorus in animal digestion and human gastric conditions.
- Neutral pH Stability: With a slurry pH near neutral (~7.0), DCP is ideal for formulations where alkaline shifts (caused by other phosphates) must be avoided.
- Hydrate Forms: Available as Anhydrous (higher density, better flow) or Dihydrate (common for feed). The choice impacts tablet compression in pharma or mixing uniformity in feed premixes.
Industrial Applications & Recommended Dosage
🐄 1. Animal Feed (Primary Application)
DCP is the global standard for balancing Calcium and Phosphorus in livestock, poultry, and aquaculture feeds.
- Function: Prevents rickets, supports bone development, and improves feed conversion ratios.
- Typical Inclusion: Generally 1% – 3% of total feed formulation, depending on species and baseline diet.
- Key Control: Strict monitoring of Fluoride levels is critical to prevent fluorosis in cattle.
🍞 2. Food Industry (E341(ii) / INS 341(ii))
Used as a nutritional supplement and processing aid in baked goods, dairy, and fortified foods.
- Functions: Dough conditioner, leavening acid component, calcium fortifier, and anti-caking agent.
- Compliance: Fully compliant with FDA 21 CFR, EU E341(ii), and JECFA standards.
💊 3. Pharmaceuticals (USP Grade)
High-purity Dibasic Calcium Phosphate is a widely used tablet excipient.
- Function: Direct compression filler/diluent due to excellent compactibility and stability.
- Standards: Manufactured to meet USP/NF monograph requirements for heavy metals and microbial limits.
DCP vs. Other Calcium Phosphates: Selection Guide
Choosing the right phosphate depends on your Ca/P ratio needs and solubility requirements.
| Feature | DCP (Dibasic) | MCP (Monobasic) | TCP (Tribasic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Use | Balanced Ca/P source (Feed/Food) | Fast P release, Acidulant | High Ca, Low Solubility |
| Solubility | Sparingly Soluble | Soluble | Insoluble |
| pH Impact | Neutral (~7.0) | Acidic | Neutral/Alkaline |
| Best For | General supplementation, Tablet filler | Leavening, Liquid feeds | High-Calcium needs, Anti-caking |
Recommendation: Choose DCP when you need a stable, near-neutral Ca/P source with internationally recognized safety limits (especially for Fluoride).
Safety, Storage & Regulatory Status
- Regulatory Anchors: Compliant with JECFA (INS 341ii), FDA GRAS, and USP monographs.
- Critical Impurity Limits (Food Grade):
- Fluoride: ≤ 50 mg/kg
- Arsenic: ≤ 3 mg/kg
- Lead: ≤ 4 mg/kg
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep containers sealed to prevent moisture absorption (caking). Shelf life typically 24 months when stored properly.
- Safety: Non-hazardous. Avoid inhalation of dust. Wear standard PPE (mask, goggles) during handling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the CAS number for Dicalcium Phosphate?
The CAS number for anhydrous Dicalcium Phosphate is 7757-93-9. The dihydrate form is commonly listed as 7789-77-7.
Q2: Is DCP the same as E341(ii)?
Yes. In the food industry, Dicalcium Phosphate is classified as E341(ii) (EU) or INS 341(ii) (International), referring specifically to Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate.
Q3: What is the maximum Fluoride limit in Food Grade DCP?
According to JECFA and most international food standards, the maximum limit for Fluoride in Food Grade DCP is 50 mg/kg. Lower limits may be required for specific pharmaceutical applications.
Q4: Can DCP be used in organic farming?
Regulations vary by region. In many jurisdictions, mined mineral phosphates like DCP are restricted in “organic” labeled products unless specifically approved. Please consult your local certification body.
Need a Reliable DCP Supplier?
Whether you need Feed Grade, Food Grade (E341ii), or USP Excipient grade, Goway Chemical provides verified COAs, competitive pricing, and global logistics.
Get your sample and latest price list today.
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