Is trisodium phosphate hazardous?
TSP was deemed harmful by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2011 and is listed as a “hazardous substance” under the agency’s Clean Water Act. The Center For Disease Control also discourages trisodium phosphate cleaner uses and lists shock, burning sensations, abdominal pain, and collapse as reactions to ingestion.
What can trisodium phosphate be used for?
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na 3PO 4. It is a white, granular or crystalline solid, highly soluble in water, producing an alkaline solution. TSP is used as a cleaning agent, builder, lubricant, food additive, stain remover, and degreaser.
Why is trisodium phosphate in cereal?
Why is there Trisodium Phosphate in Food? TSP is most commonly used to reduce the acidic nature of foods, especially breakfast cereals, as it modifies cereal color and aids in the cereal’s flow through the extruder. Other uses are: Added to meat to retain moisture during storage and cooking.
Is TSP toxic on skin?
TSP is toxic and can cause eye and skin irritation and is harmful if swallowed. 2 TSP requires care when you work with it. Always use eye protection and waterproof gloves when handling or cleaning with TSP. Also wear full skin protection, including long sleeves and long pants.
Is trisodium phosphate a carcinogen?
Carcinogenicity: IARC, NTP, and OSHA do not list Trisodium Phosphate as a carcinogen. Medical Conditions Aggravated by long term exposure: Chronic Effects: Prolonged or repeated eye and skin contact caused irritation.
What is TSP good for cleaning?
These advantages made TSP especially popular for clearing oil stains from concrete driveways, preparing surfaces for paint, stripping paint from masonry, removing creosote from fireplaces, washing decks, and cleaning exterior siding.
Is TSP toxic to humans?
A toxic substance, TSP can be harmful if swallowed, and exposure to it (in granular or diluted form) can cause serious eye injury and skin irritation.
What states have outlawed TSP?
States instituting the rule include Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. In some areas, the ban has already been in place for years.
Is borax a TSP?
An Alternative to Cleaning with TSP Also known as sodium borate, borax is a naturally-occurring mineral compound that will clean many of the same surfaces TSP has been used on for years, including mold- and mildew-stained areas—all without causing damage nearby plants.
How do you neutralize trisodium phosphate?
It is important to note that TSP is most effective against aerobic microbes (Sallam et al., 2004); 1 cup per 5 gallons is the recommended dilution, and washing with citric acid is recommended to neutralize the residue.