Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP) helps stabilize emulsions and prevents separation between water and oil-based ingredients. This is essential in products like salad dressings, mayonnaise, and sauces. SHMP acts as a texture modifier, improving the consistency of processed meats, canned seafood, and processed cheese by enhancing their water-binding properties. It prevents the formation of clumps or aggregates in powdered food products like powdered milk, powdered drink mixes, and instant soups by ensuring uniform dispersion of particles. In some cases, SHMP is used as a water softener or as a scale inhibitor to prevent the build-up of scale or mineral deposits in water treatment systems used in food and beverage production.