Phosphoric acid

Orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4); mineral acid also produced for food-grade use.

Acidity regulator and flavouring synergist in cola-type beverages, processed cheese, and bakery products.

Fully ionised in the gut; contributes to dietary phosphate load. Naturally present in many foods as phosphate.

Frequent consumption of acidic phosphate-containing soft drinks may affect dental enamel. Total phosphate intake from additives is assessed as a group (E 338–341, E 343, E 450–452); EFSA noted some population groups (notably children) may exceed the group ADI at current exposure.

Permitted in EU Annex II in specified food categories.

Phosphoric acid is GRAS in the U.S. and widely used as an acidulant in cola-type beverages and processed cheese. It contributes to dietary phosphate intake alongside other phosphate additives. FDA regulates it under GRAS; the EU assesses phosphates as a combined group (E 338–341, E 450–452).

Category-specific maximum levels in EU Annex II Part E; see Annex for limits per food type.

40 mg/kg body weight per day expressed as phosphorus — group ADI for phosphates (E 338–341, E 343, E 450–452) (EFSA, 2019).