You've probably heard of phosphates, but do you know exactly what they are ? What if we told you that eating phosphates is more natural than you think?
What are phosphates ?
Phosphates are salts of phosphorus, an element essential to life. They play a crucial role in various body processes, including cell growth, energy production and DNA formation. Of the total phosphate present in the body, 85% is found in bones and teeth.
Where are they found ?
Phosphates are found in almost all natural foods, particularly milk, cereals, fish, poultry, eggs, meat and peanuts.
They are also naturally present in the environment, mainly in rocks and minerals. Phosphate deposits can therefore also be extracted and added to certain foods.
Why are phosphates used in our oat beverages?
Phosphates can be added to foods as additives for a variety of reasons: They can improve the texture, flavor and shelf life of food products. They are regulated by the Government of Canada and are subject to rigorous oversight.
In Oatbox oat m*lks, two types of phosphates are used: calcium phosphates and dipotassium phosphate.
Calcium phosphates are sources of calcium for our two oat m*lks, Original and Barista. Calcium is an essential mineral, and the most abundant in our bodies! It's usually present in our diet, thanks in particular to dairy products. So the calcium phosphates in our oat m*lks are a great way to help you reach your recommended calcium levels without giving up oat drinks!
As the name suggests, dipotassium phosphate contains potassium, another mineral with multiple benefits: it regulates the nervous system and blood pH, and is essential for muscle and heart function.
In addition to potassium, dipotassium phosphate is very important for maintaining the creaminess of our m*lks, especially when you add our barista beverage to your hot drinks: café lattes, matcha lattes, etc...
Is it possible to consume too many phosphates ?
As part of a varied and balanced diet, it's difficult for healthy people to consume too many phosphates. This is because the kidneys, bones and intestines closely regulate levels of phosphorus (a phosphate compound) in the body.
Reducing phosphate intake, to avoid hyperphosphatemia (phosphorus toxicity), is therefore especially recommended for people with severe kidney dysfunction, as their kidneys do not eliminate phosphates sufficiently.
So, what's the bottom line ?
For anyone in good health (not suffering from severe kidney dysfunction), phosphates can therefore be part of a healthy diet, and they help us to offer you drinks with the perfect texture for all your homemade creations.