In its synthetic form, phosphoric acid is found, among other things, as an additive in some foods. You can find out exactly what acid is all about and how dangerous it is for our health here.
What is phosphoric acid?
Phosphoric acid is a carbon-free chemical compound and is therefore one of the inorganic acids. It occurs in nature in a variety of ways, for example in legumes and cereals, and is an important source of phosphorus for many living beings. In the human body, phosphoric acid is particularly important for metabolism.
Phosphoric acid can also be produced synthetically. The starting materials for this are usually so-called apatites, i.e. phosphorus-containing minerals. The acid is dissolved from the minerals using sulfuric, hydrochloric or nitric acid and then distilled. The acid itself is water soluble, colorless and odorless.
Application of phosphoric acid
Synthetically produced phosphoric acid is used in many different areas:
It is used, for example, as a basis for fertilisers, detergents and rust-removing agents.
In dentistry and orthodontics, phosphoric acid is used to make dental cement, clean teeth and prepare them for treatment.
In the food industry, the inorganic acid is mainly used as an acidifier and acidity regulator. You will find them as an additive in soft drinks, sports drinks, milk powder, coffee whiteners, cream products and milk drinks in particular. On the list of ingredients it is given under the E number E338.
Phosphoric acid: bad for our bones?
From a health perspective, phosphoric acid is considered questionable. Cola drinks in particular are repeatedly criticized for their high phosphoric acid content. There is a suspicion that regular cola consumption weakens the bones and thus promotes osteoporosis.
This is because the inorganic acid makes it difficult for the body to absorb calcium. The acid reacts with the calcium molecules and forms a salt. The body can no longer utilize the calcium bound in this way.
The problem particularly affects children and young people, who often consume more cola and other soft drinks than adults. In addition, a calcium deficiency can have serious consequences here, since they are still in the growth phase.
However, the connection between phosphoric acid and osteoporosis has not been sufficiently scientifically proven. In some studies, subjects regularly drank calcium-rich beverages, such as milk, before participating. However, during the study period, they replaced it with cola, which could be the real reason for the weaker bones.
Phosphates: Other health hazards
If you take in excessive amounts of phosphate over a long period of time, this can have further health consequences. Too high a phosphate dose has a negative effect on kidney function. Patients with kidney disease in particular should therefore keep an eye on their phosphate intake.
However, the medical journal also warns people with healthy kidneys against any phosphate additives and calls for comprehensive public education and clear labeling of the additive on the corresponding food. In animal experiments, phosphate additives have turned out to be substances that accelerate the onset of age-related complaints. In addition to osteoporosis, this also includes muscle and skin complaints, as well as premature calcification of the heart vessels.
This applies in particular to synthetically produced phosphates. Naturally occurring phosphates (e.g. in legumes, nuts or grains) are present in significantly lower amounts and are not fully absorbed by the body. The organism can use artificial additives much more effectively, so that the phosphate values rise quickly.
To avoid this, you should only consume fast food in moderation. Artificial phosphates are not only hidden in phosphoric acid, but also in many other food additives that often serve as preservatives, acidifiers or emulsifiers. It is therefore best to cook yourself with fresh and wholesome ingredients, avoid soft drinks and lemonades and generally highly processed products.
