Phosphoric acid is a clear, colorless acid used widely in the food industry as an acidifier, preservative, and flavor enhancer. It is a very common ingredient in cola-style sodas, where it provides tartness and bite.
Phosphoric acid is also commonly used in processed cheeses, meats, and baked goods to adjust acidity and prolong shelf life.
It is a common ingredient in baking powders, where it is usually included as monocalcium phosphate. In these mixtures, it produces carbon dioxide when it reacts with baking soda.
In the European Union, phosphoric acid has the additive code E338.