Phosphoric acid is clear, odorless, and has a syrupy consistency. It has many names: E338, orthophosphoric acid, o-phosphoric acid, hydrogen phosphate, triphosphoric acid, pyrophosphoric acid, and phosphoric (V) acid. It is a man-made compound made by adding three hydrogen atoms to phosphate.
Phosphoric acid is found in a lot of products. These include soft drinks, bottled tea, flavored water, punches and fruit flavored beverages, dairy products, non-dairy creamer, baking powder, breakfast/cereal bars, and processed meats. Non-food items include fertilizer, soaps, dyes, and it is used as a compound to remove and prevent rust.
You might wonder why something used for rust removal is in so many foods. In cola beverages, it is used as an acidifying agent to give the colas their tangy flavor. It is actually more acidic than lemon juice and vinegar. In meats, it is injected to enhance volume, flavor, and moisture content. These enhanced meats can have 28% to 70% more phosphate than their natural counterparts. It can also be used as a leavening agent, help to retain moisture, alter texture, extend shelf life, and has anti-caking properties.
The man-made form is classified as GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) as a food additive by the FDA. It is required to be listed on the ingredient list if it is used in a food, BUT the quantity is not required. So if phosphoric acid is considered to be safe, should we have any concerns? Let’s look at some possible concerns.
First of all, phosphoric acid is considered dangerous if you come in contact with it as its toxic fumes can irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Our bodies do need phosphorus and the RDA (recommended daily amount) is 700 mg. Organic phosphorus is found in both plant and animal sources. It is important to note that our intake of calcium and phosphorus needs to be in balance. Consuming too much phosphorus can actually decrease the amount of calcium in your body. It can also impair your body’s ability to use other minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium. Naturally occurring phosphorus is not easily absorbed (nature intended it this way), but phosphoric acid is almost 100% absorbable. To keep the calcium/phosphorus ratio in balance, we need 1-1/2 times as much calcium as phosphorus.
Probably the highest concentrated source of phosphoric acid is through colas so let’s take a look at the concerns with them. One cola can have 500 mg of phosphoric acid (remember 700 mg is the RDA). Here are some concerns with consuming colas.
- Bone: In adolescence, bones are still developing and consuming colas can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures, especially among young girls.
- Teeth: Dental corrosion, particularly to tooth enamels occurs. Remember that phosphoric acid is more acidic than lemon juice or vinegar.
- Kidney: One study found that those who drank two or more sodas a day (regular or diet) were twice as likely to suffer from kidney stones.
If you are a soda drinker and consume a high amount of processed foods, your intake of phosphoric acid could be higher than recommended. Replacing even one cola a day with pure water or herbal tea, and choosing fruits and/or vegetables for a healthier snack can be a great investment in your health. Making small changes, over time, can be so much easier on your health journey.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Heather
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