Phosphoric Acid
Also known as: E338, Orthophosphoric acid, phosphoricV acid
Phosphoric acid (E338) is FDA GRAS and EFSA permitted, but EFSA reduced the group ADI for phosphates to 40 mg/kg bw/day in 2019 after exposure assessments showed children and adolescents commonly exceed the ADI. Documented harms include dental enamel erosion (primary cause of soft-drink-related erosion), concerns for chronic kidney disease patients, and reduced bone mineral density associated with high cola intake.
What it is
Phosphoric acid (E338, also FD&C food grade phosphoric acid) is a mineral acid (H3PO4). It is GRAS in the US under 21 CFR 182.1073 and listed as E338 in the EU.
Acidulant, pH regulator, and antioxidant synergist. Primary acidifier in cola-flavored soft drinks (gives cola its tartness). Used in cheese-making, leavening agents, and as a corrosion-control agent in food processing.
Why it's flagged
- Dental enamel erosion at typical cola intake
- High intake associated with reduced bone mineral density, especially in adolescents
- EFSA 2019 reduced group ADI; children and adolescents commonly exceed it from cola intake
What regulators actually say
"EFSA establishes new ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) for phosphates of 40 mg/kg body weight per day, expressed as phosphorus, for the whole population. Combined dietary exposures to phosphates may exceed this safe level for infants, toddlers and other children with high phosphate intakes."
"High consumption of cola beverages is associated with low bone mineral density in adult women, with phosphoric acid implicated as a contributing factor."
"The ingredient is used in food at levels not to exceed current good manufacturing practice. The ingredient is used as a buffer, leavening agent, sequestrant, and synergist."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS, 21 CFR 182.1073
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as E338. Group ADI for phosphates 40 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2019)
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