Due to ingredients such as phosphates, processors of lunch meat, sausage, ham, canned fish and processed meats can offer long-lasting, moist and tender products. However, as concerns (founded or unfounded) mount that added phosphates are unhealthy, processors may have to review their labeling policy and product formulation regarding added phosphates — sooner rather than later.
All proteins naturally contain phosphates; some proteins, such as milk, soy, nuts and fish, even carry them in relatively high amounts.