PHOSPHORIC ACID

PHOSPHORIC ACID : Essential for care stability

EXCIPIENT ⎪ STABILISING AGENT 

What is Phosphoric Acid ?

Phosphoric acid is an inorganic mineral acid often used as an additive in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Also known as E338 in the food industry, it is valued for its ability to regulate acidity, impart a tangy flavor and extend product shelf life. In soft drinks, phosphoric acid imparts a slight acidity that balances sweetness, while in cosmetics, it can act as a pH regulator. This acid is odorless, making it ideal for applications where odor must not interfere with other ingredients.

Phosphoric acid is of mineral origin: it is derived from phosphate rocks or by burning phosphorus.

It is present in our Perfecting Hydrating Emulsion as a stabilising agent to maintain a homogenous formulation.

It is important to note that the use of phosphoric acid is regulated and must be respected to guarantee the safety and efficacy of cosmetic products containing this ingredient.

Where does Phosphoric Acid come from ?

Is made from phosphate ore, a natural resource. The industrial production process involves the reaction between phosphate ore and sulfuric acid, which produces purified phosphoric acid for commercial use. There are also processes that use electrolysis to obtain high-purity phosphoric acid, particularly useful in pharmaceutical and food applications. Natural phosphoric acid is also present in small quantities in certain fruits and vegetables, although most of the products used in industry are synthetic.

Properties and active ingredients :

Is valued for its many chemical and functional properties, making it a versatile ingredient in a variety of products. Here are its main characteristics and actions:

pH regulator: is used to adjust and stabilize the pH of food and cosmetic products, which is essential for the preservation and safety of formulations.
Acidifying agent: It adds a tangy flavor to beverages and foods, balancing out sweet tastes, particularly in sodas and other soft drinks.
Preservative effect: By lowering pH, phosphoric acid creates an environment less favorable to the development of micro-organisms, helping to preserve products.
Rust and scale remover: Due to its corrosive properties, is used as an active ingredient in some industrial and household cleaners to remove rust and scale.
Source of phosphorus: Phosphorus is an essential element for the human body, and phosphoric acid as a food additive can contribute to phosphorus intake, although this use is limited and controversial.

What is Benefits of phosphoric acid ?

it offers a number of advantages for food products, cosmetics and even certain industrial applications. Here are the main benefits of this versatile acid:

Improved beverage flavor: By adding a touch of acidity, phosphoric acid balances the taste of carbonated and sweet drinks, making sodas and other beverages more palatable.
pH regulation and stabilization: In food and cosmetic products, it helps maintain a stable pH, guaranteeing product safety, texture and shelf life. This is particularly important for acidic products, which require a stable environment to prevent spoilage.
Food preservation: As an acidifying agent, phosphoric acid helps inhibit the growth of certain micro-organisms, extending product shelf life and reducing the need for other chemical preservatives.
Oral health support (controversial): Although phosphoric acid has sometimes been used in toothpastes for its descaling effect, this use remains controversial, as excessive use can damage tooth enamel. It can therefore be used in small doses to remove certain stains, but should be used with caution.
Use in industrial cleaners: Thanks to its descaling and anti-rust properties, phosphoric acid is effective in industrial cleaners for removing limescale and rust, particularly on metal and difficult surfaces.

How is Phosphoric Acid used ?

it is widely used in food, cosmetics and industrial products, with applications and dosages adapted to each context:

Food and beverages: it’s added as an additive (E338) to sodas, soft drinks, canned goods and certain processed products to adjust acidity, improve flavor and prolong shelf life. The dose of phosphoric acid in these products is strictly regulated by health authorities to guarantee consumer safety.
Cosmetics and personal care: In cosmetics, it’s used as a pH regulator to adjust the acidity of lotions, creams, gels and other care products. It is also sometimes present in toothpastes in small quantities, for its cleaning effect, although this remains rare due to its potential impact on tooth enamel.
Cleaning products: Because of its ability to dissolve limescale and remove rust, phosphoric acid is an active ingredient in some industrial and household cleaning products. These products are mainly used to clean metal, tiles and sanitaryware.
Industrial applications: In industrial chemistry, phosphoric acid is used as a pickling agent, in metal treatment, and in some pharmaceutical and agricultural applications, as a source of phosphorus.

Note: In the diet, phosphoric acid consumption should be moderate, as excessive consumption could have adverse effects on bone and kidney health. If in doubt, limit soft drinks and processed foods rich in phosphoric acid.

Side effects ?

Phosphoric acid is considered safe at authorized doses, but certain undesirable effects may occur in the event of excessive consumption or inappropriate use:

Risk to bone health: Excessive consumption of phosphoric acid in soft drinks may be associated with a reduction in bone mineral density, particularly in adolescents and the elderly. This is due to the effect of phosphorus, which in high doses can reduce calcium absorption.
Damage to tooth enamel: due to its acidity, high consumption of phosphoric acid, particularly in soft drinks, can lead to erosion of tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth sensitivity.
Gastrointestinal irritation: For some people, excessive consumption can cause stomach upset or gastrointestinal irritation. People with digestive problems or acid reflux should avoid highly acidified products.
Laxative effect at high doses: it can have a slightly laxative effect when consumed in large quantities, although this is rare at doses commonly used in foods.
Effects on the kidneys: Excessive consumption can also affect the kidneys, particularly in people with a history of kidney stones. Phosphorus can promote stone formation when consumed in excess.

Sources :

Phosphoric acid’s properties and safe use are well documented in food and industrial chemistry research. Numerous scientific studies support its effectiveness as an acidifying agent, pH regulator and preservative, although research is ongoing to assess the long-term effects of high consumption.