E338 PHOSPHORIC ACID
Phosphorus compounds are widely used as acidifiers and correctors of the acidity of the foods to which they are added. These compounds, ie phosphoric acid and its salts, can be added to carbonated soft drinks and other products.
We must try not to consume an excess of phosphorus, because too high consumption could cause a calcium deficiency, and in children especially, this increases the risk of rickets (osteoporosis in adults).
Phosphoric acid or orthophosphoric acid is an inorganic compound normally present in many fruits and vegetables. The product used commercially by industries, however, is obtained from phosphate, extracted from US mines.
Phosphoric acid is an antioxidant, an acidity regulator and a chelating agent (ie a compound used to bind metal ions). It can be added to various products: it is used, above all, in carbonated drinks (for example cola), in frozen foods, sauces, meats and cheese-based products.
At the moment, no significant negative side effects have been found at normal doses, but it is advisable to limit the consumption of phosphates and their salts in order to avoid a calcium deficit.
ADI DOSE: 70 mg per kg of body weight.
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