Analysis of Disodium Phosphate in Cheeze Its White Cheddar Snack Crackers

Disodium phosphate is a food additive that is generally recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It acts as an acidity regulator, anti-caking agent, and buffering agent, often used to maintain the texture and appearance of processed foods like Cheeze Its White Cheddar Snack Crackers. From a nutritional standpoint, disodium phosphate does not contribute to the macronutrient properties (carbohydrate, protein, fat content etc.) of a product, so it does not add any nutritional value itself. Its main purpose is to improve the texture and to extend the shelf life of the product. However, increased consumption of foods with high levels of phosphates could lead to an overconsumption of phosphates, especially for those with kidney disease. A diet high in phosphates could accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and age-related ailments. The average recommended dietary allowance for phosphate is 700 mg per day for adults. You can usually get all the phosphates necessary for normal body function from a balanced diet, without the need for additional sources from additives. The risk with disodium phosphate comes not from the additive itself, but from a diet that is too high in processed foods. Regular consumption of processed foods can lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. Therefore, it's less about the ingredients like disodium phosphate, and more about the overall quality and balance in your diet. In terms of health implications, it's crucial to underline that the quantity consumed plays a significant role. In moderate amounts, like those present in Cheeze Its Snack Crackers, the impact on an individual's health would be relatively negligible, particularly if they otherwise follow a balanced and diverse diet. However, it is a different scenario if someone consumes multiple servings of highly processed foods daily, where the cumulative intake of additives could potentially pose a health risk. Considering all this information, the nutritional score for disodium phosphate in Cheeze Its would be: This relatively low score is due to its lack of nutritional value and potential health concerns if consumed excessively. However, remember that consuming it in moderation as part of a balanced diet should not pose any significant health risks.