Dicalcium diphosphate
An obsolete additive code for calcium phosphate.
- Category
- Acidity regulators
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A calcium phosphate salt functioning as an acidity regulator and anti-caking agent.
How it is used in food
Historically used as a raising-agent component, buffer and calcium source in baked goods, combining the acid function of diphosphate with a supply of dietary calcium.
Commonly found in- Historically in baked goods
Health and safety
Not specifically authorised under this E-number in the modern EU list, though calcium phosphates (E341) are.
The relevant science now sits with the phosphate group: EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation of phosphate additives set a group ADI of 40 mg/kg body weight (expressed as phosphorus) and noted that total phosphorus intake in Europe can approach this level, prompting calls to moderate phosphate additive use overall.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E540
Worth knowing
E540 is a ghost number: the code was dropped from the harmonised EU list, and the substance's roles are now covered by the modern phosphate entries such as E341 and E450, so you will not see it on a current European label.
Conclusion
An obsolete additive code for calcium phosphate.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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