Digestoa
Additive · Acidity regulator

Sodium phosphates (E339)

Sodium phosphates (E339) is an acidity regulator that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include excess phosphate.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypeAcidity regulator
Found insoft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods
ConcernsExcess phosphate · Cardiovascular concerns

What is Sodium phosphates?

Sodium phosphates (E339) is an acidity regulator — used to control acidity and balance flavour.

Is Sodium phosphates bad for you?

Digestoa flags Sodium phosphates as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including excess phosphate, cardiovascular concerns. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Sodium phosphates?

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

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Sodium phosphates. But it's a useful flag: when you see E339 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 E339 the same as Sodium phosphates?
Yes — E339 is the international additive (E-number) code for Sodium phosphates.
Is Sodium phosphates bad for you?
Digestoa flags Sodium phosphates (E339) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as excess phosphate.
What are the side effects of Sodium phosphates?
Reported concerns include: Excess phosphate; Cardiovascular concerns.
What foods contain Sodium phosphates?
Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, processed cheese and canned foods.
How can I avoid Sodium phosphates?
Check the ingredients list for "Sodium phosphates" or "E339", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related acidity regulator additives

Phosphoric acid (E338)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.