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E338Caution

Phosphoric acid

Group: Acidity regulators

Harm level3 of 5In moderation

In plain words

Phosphoric acid is a strong acid that gives cola drinks their typical sharp taste. You meet it mainly in cola and some other soft drinks and processed foods.

Where you find it: cola drinks, some cheeses

Our recommendation

Limit it; people with kidney disease or osteoporosis should be careful.

Possible risks and effects

  • Tooth enamel erosion with frequent acidic drinks.
  • Regular cola intake is linked to lower bone density in observational studies; causality is uncertain.
  • People with chronic kidney disease – phosphate additives increase phosphorus load.

For experts

Phosphoric acid and its salts belong to the phosphate additive group E338–E341 and E450–E452, used as acidity regulators, emulsifying and melting salts, water binders in meat and raising agents. EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation set a group ADI of 40 mg phosphorus/kg body weight per day and noted that some population groups may exceed it. Inorganic phosphate from additives is almost fully absorbed, unlike phosphorus bound in plants, which matters especially in chronic kidney disease.

Check another E-number

More from this group

E339Sodium phosphatesE340Potassium phosphatesE341Calcium phosphatesE450DiphosphatesE451TriphosphatesE452PolyphosphatesE325Sodium lactateE330Citric acid

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.