E338 Orthophosphoric Acid

Orthophosphoric acid (Phosphoric acid, orthophosphoric acid, E338)

Orthophosphoric (phosphoric) acid is a compound from the category of inorganic, weak acid. In the accepted classification of food additives, orthophosphoric acid has the code E338, belongs to the group of antioxidants( antioxidants), and is used as an acidity regulator.

Chemical formula H3PO4. At temperatures above 213 °C, it is converted to pyrophosphoric acid H4P2O7. Very well soluble in water.

General characteristics of E338

Orthophosphoric acid has the following physical properties – a crystalline substance without color and smell, well soluble in water solvents, often used in the form of a syrupy liquid (85% aqueous solution of orthophosphoric acid). Orthophosphoric acid is obtained chemically from phosphate or by hydrolysis (calorizator). Orthophosphoric acid is characterized by a low cost (if compared, for example, with citric acid), so it is more often used in the production of food and beverages.

Harm of Orthophosphoric acid

The main negative effect of E338 on the human body is to increase the acidity, thereby disrupting the acid-base balance, so products containing E338 should be used with extreme caution to persons with gastritis with high acidity, ideally-to exclude them from the diet. According to doctors, Orthophosphoric acid has the property of leaching calcium from the body, which has an extremely unfavorable effect on the condition of tooth enamel and bone tissue, causing caries and osteoporosis. Excessive consumption of E338 causes gastrointestinal disorders, nausea and vomiting.

Application of E338

As a regulator of acidity, Orthophosphoric acid is used in the food industry to give products a sour or slightly bitter taste. It is used in the production of carbonated soft drinks, processed cheeses, some types of sausage products and baking powder.

Other applications of Orthophosphoric acid: dentistry, cosmetology, aviation and pharmaceutical industries, production of detergents and rust converters. In agriculture, Orthophosphoric acid is a component of many types of fertilizers.

Use of E338

On the territory of our country, the use of Orthophosphoric acid is allowed, compliance with the maximum permissible standards of use is mandatory.

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