Sodium Tripolyphosphate

They call you a solid inorganic compound
But I know you are so much more than this.
You can help create my foodstuffs
As well as soaps, ceramics and detergents.

Your preserving powers astound
In my seafood, meats and toothpaste.
And I never feel in danger
Since the FDA lists you as generally safe.

You clean my dishes and my toilets,
You retain moisture in my food and then,
You help surfactants* to function effectively
Since you are Na5P3O10

I regret that this affection is false,
Though I know you aim only to please.
The only real reason I love you,
Is you are in Macaroni & Cheese.


-Jake McDonald



*According to Wikipedia; the term surfactant is a blend of "Surface active agent". Surfactants are usually organic compounds that are amphiphilic, meaning they contain both hydrophobic groups (their "tails") and hydrophilic groups (their "heads"). Therefore, they are soluble in both organic solvents and water. The term surfactant was coined by Antara Products in 1950.