Trisodium phosphate is also known as trisodium orthophosphate, sodium phosphate, or TSP. It is a chemical, a water-soluble ionic, that acts as a cleaning agent, food additive, and degreaser. TSP is a white, granular, or crystalline solid that produces an alkaline solution when mixed with water. It is often sold partially hydrated and is used commonly as an acid reducer in a variety of foods. It is also used to help blend fats with other ingredients, providing an improved texture. TSP is found in butter, cereals, meat products, processed cheeses, and canned soups. It acts as a leavening agent in commercial cakes and baked goods.

SHMP is used as a sequestrant and has applications within a wide variety of industries, including as a food additive. Sodium carbonate is sometimes added to SHMP to raise the pH to 8.0-8.6, which produces a number of SHMP products used for water softening and detergents.