Comparing E338 - Phosphoric acid vs E260 - Acetic acid

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Overview

E338 - Phosphoric acid

Phosphoric acid (E338) is a clear, tart-tasting acid used to control acidity and sharpen flavor in many foods and drinks. It also binds trace metals, which helps stop off-flavors and color changes. You’ll most often see it on the label of colas and other soft drinks.

E260 - Acetic acid

Acetic acid (E260) is the sharp-tasting organic acid that gives vinegar its sour flavor and smell. In food, it is used mainly to acidify and preserve products like pickles and sauces, and it appears on labels as acetic acid, E260, or vinegar. Regulators in the U.S. and EU consider it safe when used as intended.

Synonyms

E338

Phosphoric acid

Orthophosphoric acid

phosphoricV acid

E260

Acetic acid

ethanoic acid

Functions

acidity regulator sequestrant

acidity regulator preservative

Origins

Products

Found in 4,566 products

Found in 3,047 products

Search rank & volume

#6246.5K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#2987.5K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×1.49

over-aware

×4.19

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

Is phosphoric acid bad for you?
At permitted food levels it’s considered safe (GRAS in the U.S.; EFSA sets a group ADI for phosphates of 40 mg/kg bw/day as phosphorus). Overconsumption—especially via acidic soft drinks—can contribute to dental enamel erosion, and high phosphate intakes may be a concern for people with kidney disease.
Is phosphoric acid a strong acid?
No—it's a weak, triprotic acid (pKa ≈ 2.15, 7.2, 12.3), though concentrated solutions are corrosive.
What is phosphoric acid used for?
In foods it’s used as an acidulant to add tartness and control pH (e.g., in colas) and as a sequestrant/antioxidant to stabilize color and flavor.
What does phosphoric acid do to the body?
It dissociates into phosphate ions, which are essential for bones and energy metabolism, while the acid load is buffered and excreted. High intakes from acidic drinks can erode tooth enamel, and excess phosphate may be problematic in kidney disease or with low calcium intake.
What is the formula for phosphoric acid?
H3PO4.