Is Phosphoric Acid Safe? E338 Explained
Phosphoric Acid is E338 (Phosphoric Acid) — the acid in cola drinks — responsible for their sharpness and a source of significant phosphate intake for heavy drinkers.
What is Phosphoric Acid?
E338 is Phosphoric Acid, a food additive classified as a acidity regulator that control pH and add tartness. The acid in cola drinks — responsible for their sharpness and a source of significant phosphate intake for heavy drinkers. You'll find it in soft drinks, jams, canned goods and many other packaged foods. Phosphoric Acid is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E338 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Is Phosphoric Acid bad for you?
E338 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Phosphoric Acid in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Phosphoric Acid — status Some concerns.
Foods containing Phosphoric Acid
- soft drinks
- jams
- canned goods
- baked products
- cheese
- wine
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Phosphoric Acid FAQs
Is Phosphoric Acid bad for you?
E338 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Phosphoric Acid in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either ac
Is Phosphoric Acid vegan?
E338 (Phosphoric Acid) is vegan. It is derived from mineral, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is Phosphoric Acid halal?
E338 (Phosphoric Acid) is halal. It is derived from mineral, which involves no haram sources.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA