Monocalcium Phosphate (MCP): The Essential Leavening Agent for Food Industry
Monocalcium Phosphate (MCP), also known as Calcium Dihydrogen Phosphate, is a vital ingredient in the modern food industry. While widely known in animal feed, Food Grade MCP plays a specific and critical role as a leavening acid in baking powders, flour mixes, and processed foods.
As a professional phosphate manufacturer, Goway Chemical provides high-purity Food Grade MCP (Anhydrous and Monohydrate) to help bakeries and food processors achieve the perfect texture and volume.
Goway Chemical High Purity STPP Powder (Industrial & Food Grade)
What is Food Grade Monocalcium Phosphate?
Chemically represented as Ca(H2PO4)2, Food Grade MCP is an inorganic compound derived from purified phosphoric acid and calcium source. It typically appears as a white, odorless crystalline powder or granule.
- CAS Number: 7758-23-8
- E Number: E341(i)
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water (acidic reaction)
Key Functions: Why Bakeries Need MCP?
The primary function of MCP in food is acting as a Leavening Acid (Leavening Agent). It reacts with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to release carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough and batter to rise.
1. Rapid Reaction (Fast Acting)
MCP is known as a fast-acting leavening acid. It releases about 60-70% of its CO2 gas immediately upon mixing with water and soda during the batter preparation stage. This makes it ideal for:
- Cookies and Crackers: Requires quick expansion.
- Pancake Mixes: Creates instant fluffiness.
- Double-Acting Baking Powder: MCP provides the “first stage” gas release, while another acid (like SAPP) provides the “second stage” during heating.
2. Dough Conditioning
Beyond leavening, the calcium component in MCP acts as a nutrient for yeast and helps strengthen the gluten structure in bread dough.
3. pH Regulation
It acts as a buffering agent to maintain acidity levels in canned fruits and vegetables, ensuring firmness and color stability.
Food Grade vs. Feed Grade: What’s the Difference?
Buyers often ask if they can use Feed Grade MCP for food. The answer is NO.
| Specification | Food Grade MCP | Feed Grade MCP |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | Very High (FCC/E341 Standard) | Standard for Animal Nutrition |
| Heavy Metals (Pb, As) | Strictly Limited (< 3ppm) | Higher tolerance limits |
| Production Process | Uses Purified Phosphoric Acid | Uses Wet-process Acid |
Why Purchase MCP from Goway Chemical?
For industrial food production, consistency is key. A slight variation in the neutralizing value (NV) of MCP can ruin a batch of bakery products.
- Consistent Neutralizing Value (NV): We ensure our MCP has a stable NV (typically around 80-85), guaranteeing predictable leavening performance.
- Fine Powder Mesh: Our 200-mesh powder ensures rapid dissolving and no gritty mouthfeel in the final product.
- Certifications: ISO 9001, HACCP, and Halal/Kosher certified for global export.
Professional warehousing and container loading ensures goods arrive safely.
FAQ about Food Grade MCP
Is Monocalcium Phosphate safe?
Yes. It is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the US FDA and is a permitted food additive (E341) in the European Union. It is also a source of Calcium and Phosphorus minerals.
Is MCP vegan and gluten-free?
Yes. MCP is a chemical salt produced from minerals. It contains no animal products and no wheat gluten.
Can MCP be used in self-rising flour?
Absolutely. It is the most common acidulant used in household self-rising flour because it reacts quickly when water is added.
Need a Quote for Food Grade MCP?
We supply Food Grade Monocalcium Phosphate in 25kg Kraft bags with PE liners. Contact us for the latest price and COA.
