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E338
Phosphoric acid
A strong mineral acid used to acidify soft drinks and adjust the pH of processed foods; it gives cola its sharp bite.
i Additive Details
| Is E338 Phosphoric acid safe?
People with chronic kidney disease are advised to limit phosphate additives. Inorganic phosphate added to food is absorbed almost completely, while the phosphorus naturally bound in meat, dairy and grains is absorbed far less efficiently, so additives raise blood phosphate out of proportion to the amount listed on a label. Heavy cola consumption has been associated in observational studies with lower bone mineral density, but the effect is debated and has not been established as causal; caffeine and the displacement of milk from the diet are likely confounders. As a strong acid it also contributes to dental erosion in people who drink acidic soft drinks frequently.
| Uses
Supplies the tart, sharp taste of cola drinks and holds their pH low, which also helps keep them microbiologically stable. Used more sparingly as an acidity regulator in processed cheese, jams, some beverages and meat products, and it is the starting material for the phosphate salts E339 to E341.
| Interactions
Binds metal ions such as iron and copper, which slows oxidation and colour change and reinforces the antioxidants used alongside it. Neutralising it with sodium, potassium or calcium produces E339, E340 and E341, all of which fall under the same EFSA group ADI.
| Origin
Manufactured from mined phosphate rock, either by treating the rock with sulphuric acid and purifying the product to food grade, or by burning elemental phosphorus and hydrating the oxide. Phosphorus itself is an essential mineral present in every living cell.
| Daily Intake
EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation set a single group ADI of 40 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, expressed as phosphorus, covering all phosphate additives (E 338-341, E 343 and E 450-452) together rather than each salt separately. EFSA concluded that this group ADI is exceeded by some population groups, in particular children and adolescents at average consumption and high consumers in all age groups.
Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related additives
- E332 Potassium citrates The potassium salts of citric acid, used to regulate acidity and bind metal ions.
- E334 L(+)-tartaric acid The natural acid of grapes, used to add sourness and as the acid in baking powder.
- E575 Glucono-delta-lactone A mild acid formed from glucose that slowly turns into gluconic acid once it meets water.
- E339 Monosodium phosphate A sodium salt of phosphoric acid used as a buffer, emulsifying salt and moisture binder in processed foods.
- E340 Monopotassium phosphate A potassium salt of phosphoric acid used as a buffer and mineral salt, notably in drinks and creamers.
- E341 Monocalcium phosphate A calcium salt of phosphoric acid used mainly as the acid component of baking powder, and as a firming agent and calcium source.
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