E450 Emulsifier

E450 and other sodium and potassium polyphosphates are widely used in food processing; in the E number scheme, they are collectively designated as E450, with the disodium form designated as E450(a). In the United States, it is classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use. In canned seafood, it is used to maintain color and reduce purge[clarification needed] during retorting. Retorting achieves microbial stability with heat. It is an acid source for reaction with baking soda to leaven baked goods. In baking powder, it is often labeled as food additive E450. In cured meats, it speeds the conversion of sodium nitrite to nitrite (NO2−) by forming the nitrous acid (HONO) intermediate,[clarification needed] and can improve water-holding capacity.E450 is also found in frozen hash browns and other potato products, where it is used to keep the color of the potatoes from darkening.

E450 can leave a slightly bitter aftertaste in some products, but "the SAPP taste can be masked by using sufficient baking soda and by adding a source of calcium ions, sugar, or flavorings."