Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) is an inorganic calcium phosphate compound produced by reacting calcium hydroxide with phosphoric acid under alkaline conditions. It is practically insoluble in water but soluble in dilute acids, which allows for controlled calcium release in the digestive system.
TCP is widely used as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods, spices, and table salt due to its excellent moisture-absorbing properties. It serves as an economical source of bioavailable calcium and phosphorus for nutritional fortification of flour, cereals, and beverages. TCP also functions as a polishing agent in oral care products and as a tableting excipient in dietary supplements.
