Phosphoric acid
Cola acid; high phosphate intake linked to cardiovascular concerns.
- Category
- Antioxidants, Sequestrants
- Acceptable daily intake
- 40 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Phosphoric acid (E338) is a synthetic, mineral-based acid. It provides a sharp, tart flavor that is cheaper and more pungent than citric acid.
How it is used in food
Gives cola its sharp bite.
Commonly found in- Cola beverages and dark sodas
- Processed cheese
- Flavored waters and energy drinks
Health and safety
High total phosphate load is linked to vascular and kidney strain.
Phosphoric acid is the most asked-about ingredient in soft drinks. Like other synthetic phosphates (e.g., E450), the phosphorus in E338 is absorbed by the body at nearly a 100% rate, compared to the 40-60% absorption rate of natural phosphorus found in food.
Cardiovascular strain and bone loss
High blood phosphate levels cause calcium to leach from bones, weakening them, and depositing the calcium into blood vessels, which stiffens arteries.
Dental erosion
Because it is a strong acid, excessive exposure (like frequent soda consumption) actively erodes tooth enamel.
EFSA’s 2019 re-evaluation warned high consumers can exceed the safe intake.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E338
Also printed asOrthophosphoric acid
Alternatives to this additive
- E330: Citric acid — A safer, naturally occurring acid, though it lacks the specific "bite" that defines a cola's flavor.
How it is made
It is industrially produced from mined phosphate rock. The rock is treated with sulfuric acid to produce phosphoric acid.
- Mining — Phosphate rock is mined.
- Acidulation — The rock is treated with sulfuric acid in the "wet process" to yield phosphoric acid.
Worth knowing
Can be used to remove rust.
Conclusion
A diet high in colas and processed foods can lead to excessive phosphate intake. This disrupts the body's calcium-phosphorus balance, forcing it to pull calcium out of bones, leading to decreased bone density and calcification (stiffening) of the arteries.
References
Is it in what you are buying?
ScanWise reads the barcode and tells you which additives a product actually contains, and what they do to its score.
Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
← All additives