Phosphoric Acid E338
acidulant, sequestrant — Primarily synthetic.
Orthophosphoric acid
CAS: 7664-38-2
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
? Did You Know?
Global production scale: Global production exceeds 40 million tonnes annually, primarily for fertilizers
Beyond food, Phosphoric Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Quantum satis in many categories; specific limits in others due to phosphate intake concerns
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Widely used in cola beverages
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Commercially produced by two main methods: (1) Wet process - treating phosphate rock (calcium phosphate) with sulfuric acid, or (2) Thermal process - burning elemental phosphorus in air to form phosphorus pentoxide, then hydrating it. Food-grade phosphoric acid uses the thermal process for higher purity. Global production exceeds 40 million tonnes annually, primarily for fertilizers.
Applications Beyond Food
pH adjuster in skincare and dental products.
pH adjuster, dental etchant, pharmaceutical intermediate.
Rust removal, metal treatment, fertilizer production (85% of production), detergents, water treatment.
Rust removers, cleaning products, descalers.