Phosphoric acid is an inorganic compound acid derived from the mineral phosphorus. It is a crystalline solid, but in its less concentrated form it is a colorless syrupy liquid. Phosphoric acid is used to acidify foods and beverages, and serves as a starting point to produce many phosphate derivatives.

Phosphoric acid is made two different ways.

1. The wet process

• • Phosphoric acid is produced from fluorapatite, a phosphate rock, and the addition of a concentrated acid, such as sulfuric acid, in a series of well-stirred reactors. This results in phosphoric acid and calcium sulfate (gypsum). Water is added and the gypsum is removed by filtration along with other insoluble materials (e.g. silica). Fluoride is removed at a further stage through evaporation.

2. The thermal process

• • The raw materials for this process are phosphorus and air. Phosphorus is sprayed into a furnace and is burnt in air (dried or undried) at about 1800-3000 degrees Kelvin.

Phosphoric acid serves as an acidic fruit-like flavoring in food products such as jams and soft drinks.

Phosphoric acid can be found in soft drinks, dairy products like milk, cottage cheese, and buttermilk, and other processed foods like cereal bars, flavored waters, bottled coffee beverages, and processed meats.

Phosphoric acid is considered generally recognized as safe or GRAS by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Yes, phosphoric acid can be used in products labelled as vegetarian. Phosphoric acid can be certified kosher and halal which can then be used in kosher and halal foods.

Phosphoric acid helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can multiply easily in a sugary solution.

Phosphoric acid is also used in some fertilizers, helping to improve the natural growth process of plants, algae, and crops.

Phosphoric acid prevents the growth of mold and bacteria in foods with sugary solutions. This increases the shelf life of that food or beverage and thus improves affordability.

Phosphoric acid does not contain GMOs.

Phosphoric acid is safe for children in moderation.

Phosphoric acid has been used in food since at least 1885 when it was used to make the first formulations of what would later become Coca-Cola.