What is E338?
E338 is Phosphoric Acid — a mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E338 (Phosphoric Acid)?
E338 is the E-number for phosphoric acid, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. A mineral acid produced from phosphate rock. Like every E-number, E338 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E338 in detail below.
Where is E338 found?
E338 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E338) or by its full name, phosphoric acid. Common foods that may contain E338 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E338 and how to spot it on labels →
E338 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Phosphoric Acid safe?
Is E338 safe?
E338 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation of phosphates found that total phosphate intake exceeds the safe level for some children and teenagers with diets high in processed food. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E338 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E338 vegan?
E338 is vegan. A mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E338 →Is E338 halal?
E338 is halal. A mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E338 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E338 in food?
E338 is Phosphoric Acid — a mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E338 safe to eat?
E338 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E338 vegan?
E338 is vegan. A mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E338 halal?
E338 is halal. A mineral acid produced from phosphate rock, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).