Comparing E338 - Phosphoric acid vs E342 - Ammonium phosphate
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Found in 4,566 products
Found in 129 products
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Search volume over time
Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 4 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 the formula for ammonium phosphate?
For E342, the ammonium phosphates used are monoammonium phosphate (NH4H2PO4) and diammonium phosphate ((NH4)2HPO4); the fully neutral (NH4)3PO4 is unstable and not typically used in foods.
Is monoammonium phosphate toxic?
It has low toxicity and is permitted as a food additive; within the group ADI for phosphates (e.g., EFSA: 40 mg phosphorus/kg body weight/day), normal food uses are considered safe. Very high intakes can disturb mineral balance, and people with kidney disease should manage phosphate intake.
Is ammonium phosphate toxic?
At permitted food levels, ammonium phosphates (E342) are considered safe, with a group ADI for phosphates set by EFSA at 40 mg phosphorus/kg body weight/day. Excessive intake may affect mineral balance and is a concern for those with impaired kidney function.
Is ammonium phosphate soluble in water?
Yes—both monoammonium and diammonium phosphate are readily soluble in water.