Phosphoric acid
Other names: Phosphoric acid, E338
Harm score: 3 (Harmless chemicals)
Phosphoric acid, also known as phosphoric acid or E338, is a colourless liquid with a characteristic pungent odour. It is a substance soluble in water, alcohol or ether and has strong acidic properties. Phosphoric acid is characterised by its ability to react with many substances to form new chemical compounds.
Phosphoric acid is widely used in many fields. It is an integral part of fertiliser production where it serves as a source of phosphorus, an essential element for plant growth and development. In the pharmaceutical industry, phosphoric acid is used in the manufacture of pH-regulating drugs. It is also frequently encountered in the food industry, where E338 is used as an acidity regulator or chelator, a substance that helps to stabilise food ingredients. Phosphoric acid is often added to soft drinks, such as Coca Cola, where it increases the sharpness of the taste. E338 is also used in cleaning and disinfecting products due to its strong acidic properties.