Phosphoric acid
What is Phosphoric acid?
Phosphoric acid (E338) is a mineral acid that occurs naturally in many foods. It is manufactured industrially from phosphate rock, typically by reacting it with sulfuric acid. It is a colourless, odourless liquid that is highly corrosive in its concentrated form.
Is Phosphoric acid vegan?
Phosphoric acid is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Phosphoric acid gluten-free?
It is not a source of gluten.
Is Phosphoric acid a major allergen?
Phosphoric acid is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Phosphoric acid used for?
Phosphoric acid is widely used as an acidity regulator and flavouring agent in the food industry.
Is Phosphoric acid safe?
Phosphoric acid is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and the EU.
Why it's used
Phosphoric acid is widely used as an acidity regulator and flavouring agent in the food industry. It imparts a sharp, tangy taste, often used to enhance the flavour of colas and other soft drinks. It can also act as a preservative by lowering the pH of foods.
Health notes
Phosphoric acid is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and the EU. EFSA has evaluated its safety and it is permitted for use in a wide range of foods. While phosphoric acid is a normal component of the diet and is found in many foods, high intakes of phosphate from processed foods, particularly in combination with low calcium intake, have been suggested in some studies to potentially affect bone health. However, evidence is mixed and the NHS advises that a balanced diet usually provides sufficient calcium and phosphorus.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.1 infant formulae as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 1000 |
| 13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 1000 |
| 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants | 1000 |
Allergen info
Phosphoric acid is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.
Foods that contain Phosphoric acid
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