Which soda has phosphate?

December 3, 2025 •

5 min read

Dark-colored colas are well-known for containing phosphoric acid, the primary ingredient that determines which soda has phosphate and provides its characteristic tangy flavor. This differs significantly from clear sodas, which often use citric acid instead, and helps explain the different taste profiles across various carbonated beverages.

Quick Summary

Phosphoric acid, a form of phosphate, is a key additive in many dark colas, enhancing flavor and shelf life. Clear and many fruit-flavored sodas typically use citric acid, offering low or no phosphate. The choice affects both taste and health.

Key Points

Dark Colas Have Phosphate: Popular dark sodas like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Dr. Pepper contain phosphoric acid, the source of phosphate.
Clear Sodas Are Generally Phosphate-Free: Most clear beverages, including Sprite, 7UP, and many ginger ales, use citric acid and contain little to no phosphate.
Phosphoric Acid Affects Flavor and Shelf Life: It provides the tangy taste characteristic of colas and acts as a preservative to inhibit bacterial growth.
Readily Absorbed Additives Are a Concern: Unlike natural phosphorus, the phosphate added to soda is easily and quickly absorbed by the body, which can be a health risk.
Potential Health Risks of Excessive Intake: High consumption of phosphoric acid has been linked to increased risk of chronic kidney disease and decreased bone mineral density.
Check the Label for "Phosphoric Acid" or "E338": The most reliable way to know if a soda contains phosphate is to read the ingredients list and look for these specific terms.

The Role of Phosphoric Acid in Soft Drinks

Phosphoric acid, a colorless and odorless mineral acid, is a common food additive used for several purposes. In the soft drink industry, its primary function is to act as an acidulant, providing a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the intense sweetness of sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, creating a balanced and refreshing taste. This acid also serves as a preservative by slowing the growth of mold and bacteria, which is crucial for extending a soda's shelf life. The concentration of phosphoric acid varies by product, but it is a defining characteristic of many colas.

Why Different Sodas Use Different Acids

The reason some sodas have phosphate while others don't comes down to flavor profile and brand recipe. The sharp, slightly biting taste of phosphoric acid is integral to the distinct flavor of colas, while the brighter, fruitier flavor of citric acid is better suited for lemon-lime, orange, and other fruit-based sodas. This ingredient choice is a fundamental difference in the beverage's chemistry and taste.

Which Dark Sodas Contain Phosphate?

Dark-colored colas and many root beers are the most common culprits for containing phosphoric acid. The distinctive flavor of these beverages is directly linked to this ingredient. If you're wondering which soda has phosphate, a quick glance at the label of popular brands will confirm its presence, often listed as 'phosphoric acid' or 'E338'.

Coca-Cola (Classic, Diet, Zero): All variations contain phosphoric acid, which contributes to the beverage's iconic flavor. A typical 8 oz serving of Coca-Cola can contain around 37.5 mg of phosphorus.
Pepsi (Regular, Diet, Max): Similar to Coke, Pepsi products rely on phosphoric acid for their taste profile. An 8 oz serving of regular Pepsi contains approximately 31.2 mg of phosphorus.
Dr. Pepper (Regular, Diet): This dark soda also includes phosphoric acid in its formulation. Data from studies show that Dr. Pepper and Diet Dr. Pepper have a significant phosphorus content.
Pibb Xtra: Another spicy cherry-cola flavored drink, Pibb Xtra lists phosphoric acid as a key ingredient, contributing to its distinct taste.

Clear Sodas and Other Low-Phosphate Alternatives

For those looking to reduce their phosphate intake, choosing clear sodas and certain other beverages can be a good strategy. These drinks typically rely on other acidulants, such as citric acid, for their flavor.

Sprite: The clear lemon-lime soda contains no phosphoric acid in its standard formulation.
7UP: Much like Sprite, 7UP is a clear, lemon-lime flavored soda that does not contain added phosphoric acid.
Ginger Ale (Canada Dry): Most versions of ginger ale, including Canada Dry, are free of phosphoric acid.
Root Beer (A&W, Mug): While some root beers contain phosphate, others do not. A&W and Mug are examples of brands that do not contain phosphoric acid, making them a suitable alternative. Always check the specific product label to be sure.
Flavored Waters and Seltzers: Most flavored seltzers and sparkling waters are naturally low in phosphorus and do not contain phosphoric acid.

Health Considerations of Phosphoric Acid

While approved for use in foods and beverages, excessive consumption of phosphoric acid, particularly from soda, has been linked to potential health concerns. These risks are especially relevant for individuals with kidney disease or other underlying health issues.

The Impact on Kidney Health

For individuals with chronic kidney disease, controlling phosphorus levels is critical, and high intake from food additives can be particularly problematic. Studies have shown that the phosphorus from additives like phosphoric acid is more easily and completely absorbed by the body than naturally occurring phosphorus. One study, for instance, found that drinking two or more colas daily was associated with a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

Bone Health Concerns

Excessive phosphate intake, especially when calcium intake is low, can disrupt the body's mineral balance. The body tries to maintain the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, and high levels of phosphorus can lead to the pulling of calcium from bones, weakening them over time. This effect has been linked to lower bone mineral density, particularly in adolescents and older adults who consume large amounts of soda.

Dental Health Risks

The high acidity of phosphoric acid in colas contributes to the erosion of tooth enamel. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and sensitivity. While all sugary sodas are bad for dental health, the additional acidulant in colas can exacerbate this effect.

Reading the Labels: What to Look For

When trying to determine which soda has phosphate, the most reliable method is to check the ingredient list. Look specifically for the terms 'phosphoric acid' or its food additive code, 'E338'. Be mindful that some food additives have complex names and may not be immediately obvious, but phosphoric acid is typically clearly labeled due to its widespread use and distinct flavor profile. For the most accurate information on a specific product's phosphorus content, refer to nutritional databases or the manufacturer's website.

Comparison Table: Colas vs. Clear Sodas


Feature	Colas (e.g., Coca-Cola, Pepsi)	Clear Sodas (e.g., Sprite, 7UP)
Primary Acidulant	Phosphoric Acid	Citric Acid (or none)
Flavor Profile	Sharp, tangy, often robust	Bright, citrusy, sometimes with fruit notes
Color	Dark, caramel	Clear or light colored
Typical Phosphate Content	High	Low to none
Preservative Effect	Contributes to shelf stability	Citric acid can also act as a preservative

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Your Soda

To answer the question, "Which soda has phosphate?" the general rule is that dark-colored colas and some root beers contain phosphoric acid, while most clear and fruit-flavored sodas do not. This ingredient gives colas their signature tangy flavor and acts as a preservative. However, the readily absorbable phosphorus from this additive can be a concern for kidney and bone health, particularly with excessive consumption. By checking ingredient labels for 'phosphoric acid' or 'E338', consumers can make informed choices, opt for low-phosphate alternatives like clear sodas or seltzers, and manage their overall dietary phosphorus intake effectively. For more detailed information on phosphoric acid's effects on the body, refer to health sources like Healthline: Is Phosphoric Acid Bad for Me?.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should check the labels of all dark-colored colas, including versions like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Dr. Pepper, as they are the most likely to contain phosphoric acid. Some root beers and energy drinks also contain this additive.

Yes, many diet versions of dark-colored colas, such as Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi, still contain phosphoric acid to replicate the tangy flavor of their regular counterparts. The key difference is the lack of sugar, not the absence of this acid.

Yes, some brands like A&W Root Beer and Mug Root Beer do not use phosphoric acid. Instead, they rely on other ingredients for their flavor profile. It's always best to check the ingredient list for each product.

For individuals with specific health conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, monitoring phosphate intake is crucial. Even for healthy individuals, excessive intake from processed foods and drinks can potentially impact bone and kidney health over the long term.

The main purpose is to provide a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness and to act as a preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria and mold.

To avoid soda with phosphoric acid, opt for clear sodas like lemon-lime varieties and ginger ale. Also, consider beverages like fruit-flavored seltzers, sparkling water, tea, or coffee, which are naturally low in phosphate.

Yes, research indicates that the phosphorus added to foods and drinks as a chemical additive is more readily and completely absorbed by the body compared to the naturally occurring phosphorus found in plant and animal products.