Tag: E338

Food-grade phosphoric acid is a colorless, odorless compound used widely in cola beverages to provide a sharp, tangy taste and act as a preservative. This mineral acid balances the intense sweetness and plays a key role in achieving the desired flavor profile of many popular carbonated beverages.

With anywhere from 10% to 50% of the typical Western diet's phosphorus intake potentially derived from food additives, many consumers question whether phosphoric acid is good for your body. As a key ingredient in numerous sodas and processed foods, its role is complex, offering both benefits and significant health concerns when consumed in excess.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cola beverages are a significant source of phosphate, and this is due to the inclusion of phosphoric acid. Understanding which sodas contain phosphoric acid is key for consumers who wish to make informed choices about their beverage consumption and its potential effects on their health.

The distinct, crisp tang of your favorite cola is often due to a single ingredient: food-grade phosphoric acid. In beverages, phosphoric acid is used as a multifunctional additive, serving to enhance flavor, regulate acidity, and preserve freshness.

Phosphoric acid is a common and inexpensive ingredient used to add tartness to colas and preserve processed foods. However, excessive consumption has been linked to significant health concerns, particularly affecting bone density and dental health. What is the problem with phosphoric acid that makes this food additive so controversial?