Sodium Trimetaphosphate (Na₃P₃O₉, STMP) is a cyclic trimer of sodium metaphosphate. Its primary food use is as a starch crosslinking agent (approved for modified food starches).
This improves starch stability against heat, acid and shear. Also used as a sequestrant, a curing accelerator in processed meats, and as a phosphate coating for seafood moisture retention. In industrial applications it serves as a water treatment agent and ceramic glaze ingredient.