E338 – Orthophosphoric Acid

Description

Technical Description: Inorganic acid used as an acidity regulator, sequestrant, and synergist for antioxidants

Risks

Notes

Phosphoric acid is a clear, colorless inorganic acid that's produced commercially by treating phosphate rock (a naturally occurring mineral) with sulfuric acid, or through a more purified process involving burning elemental phosphorus and treating it with water. Unlike the previous tartrate compounds, phosphoric acid doesn't come from plants or fermentation – it's derived from mineral sources through industrial chemical processes. In foods, phosphoric acid serves multiple functions: as an acidity regulator to control tartness and pH levels, as a sequestrant to bind metal ions that could cause spoilage, and as an antioxidant synergist to help other preservatives work better. It's most recognizable as the ingredient that gives cola soft drinks their distinctive sharp, tangy flavor, but it's also used in processed cheeses, jams, breakfast cereals, and some meat products. Phosphoric acid is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets and doesn't present direct allergen concerns. However, there has been some discussion about high consumption of phosphoric acid (primarily from frequent cola consumption) potentially affecting calcium absorption and bone health, though this mainly concerns people who drink large amounts of phosphoric acid-containing sodas regularly. The amounts used in most other foods are quite small and considered safe by regulatory authorities.