E338: Phosphoric acid
What is E338?
Phosphoric acid is a mineral acid made of phosphorus, oxygen and hydrogen. Labelled E338, it is a colourless, odourless liquid with a strong, clean sour taste.
Origin and production
Food-grade phosphoric acid is produced from mined phosphate rock, either by treating it with sulphuric acid and purifying the result, or by burning elemental phosphorus and dissolving the product in water.
Why is it used?
It is best known as the acidulant in cola drinks, where it provides tartness and works with the other ingredients to shape the flavour. It is also used to regulate acidity in some sauces and bakery products and to bind metal ions that could cause off-flavours.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Phosphoric acid is mineral-derived and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is not a concern for halal or kosher diets.
Safety and regulation
Phosphoric acid is authorised in the EU and was included in EFSA's re-evaluation of phosphates, which set a group acceptable daily intake for phosphorus. EFSA identified a risk of exceeding that acceptable daily intake for some population groups.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E338
