Digestoa
Additive · Acidity regulator

Phosphoric acid (E338)

Phosphoric acid (E338) is an acidity regulator that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include bone mineral density concerns.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypeAcidity regulator
Found insoft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods
ConcernsBone mineral density concerns · High phosphate intake

What is Phosphoric acid?

Phosphoric acid (E338) is an acidity regulator — used to control acidity and balance flavour.

Is Phosphoric acid bad for you?

Digestoa flags Phosphoric acid as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including bone mineral density concerns, high phosphate intake. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Phosphoric acid?

Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Phosphoric acid. But it's a useful flag: when you see E338 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Choose less-processed products with short, recognisable ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E338 the same as Phosphoric acid?
Yes — E338 is the international additive (E-number) code for Phosphoric acid.
Is Phosphoric acid bad for you?
Digestoa flags Phosphoric acid (E338) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as bone mineral density concerns.
What are the side effects of Phosphoric acid?
Reported concerns include: Bone mineral density concerns; High phosphate intake.
What foods contain Phosphoric acid?
Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods.
How can I avoid Phosphoric acid?
Check the ingredients list for "Phosphoric acid" or "E338", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related acidity regulator additives

Sodium phosphates (E339)Potassium phosphates (E340)Calcium phosphates (E341)Sodium lactate (E325)Citric acid (E330)Sodium citrates (E331)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.