E338: Phosphoric Acid
Main role: acidity adjustment
Also listed as: orthophosphoric acid
What is E338 (Phosphoric Acid)?
Phosphoric acid is an inorganic food acid used to produce tartness and adjust acidity in suitable drinks and other formulations. It supplies phosphate chemistry rather than the fruit-derived acid profile of citric or malic acid.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity adjustment. Phosphate ingredients have several recipe roles, including acidity control, water management, and texture. Some codes cover multiple related salts, so the full ingredient name is useful when identifying a specific preparation.
Food and formulation examples
- Cola-style beverages
- Specified food acidity systems
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E338, E 338, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include orthophosphoric acid. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Phosphoric acid and phosphate salts contribute to the wider phosphorus-intake picture. A label identifies the ingredient but cannot reveal total phosphorus exposure across food and supplements.
Is E338 safe?
EFSA’s 2019 phosphate assessment excludes moderate or severe kidney dysfunction from its general-population intake limit. EFSA phosphate assessment (2019).
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E338 as Phosphoric acid. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.