Comparing E338 - Phosphoric acid vs E339III - Trisodium phosphate
Overview
Synonyms
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Found in 4,566 products
Found in 1,058 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
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.
What is trisodium phosphate used for?
It’s a synthetic phosphate salt (E339iii) used in foods as an acidity regulator/buffer, emulsifier, stabilizer, sequestrant, and moisture-binding agent to improve texture, retain moisture, and prevent discoloration.
Why is trisodium phosphate in cereal?
It helps control pH during processing/extrusion and improves texture and crunch, and it can chelate metals to prevent off-colors or clumping.
Is trisodium phosphate bad for you?
At approved food levels it’s considered safe by regulators (e.g., FDA GRAS; EFSA sets a group ADI for phosphates), but people with kidney disease or those limiting phosphorus or sodium should monitor intake.
Is trisodium phosphate poisonous?
Food-grade amounts used in foods are not poisonous; however, concentrated/non‑food forms are caustic and ingesting large amounts can be harmful.
Is trisodium phosphate in cereal bad for you?
The small amounts used in cereal are within regulatory limits and not considered harmful for the general population; the main concern is overall phosphorus and sodium intake. Those with kidney disease or on phosphate‑restricted diets should limit added phosphate sources.