Sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) is a condensed polyphosphate produced by melting monosodium phosphate at high temperatures followed by rapid quenching to form a glassy solid. It consists of polymeric chains of phosphate units with an average chain length of 10 to 25 units.
SHMP is one of the most widely used food-grade polyphosphates due to its exceptional sequestering, dispersing, and water-softening properties. In beverages, it prevents calcium and magnesium precipitation that causes turbidity and scale formation. SHMP also functions as an effective emulsifier, texturizer, and moisture-binding agent in meat, dairy, and seafood processing.