Is E338 Vegan?
If you’ve ever turned your food packet to read the ingredients list, you may have come across E338, also known as Phosphoric Acid. But what exactly is it? And more importantly, is it vegan? Let’s find out.
What is E338?
E338, commonly known as Phosphoric Acid, is a food additive widely used in various industries, especially the food and beverage sector.
What E338 is used for
E338 plays a significant role as an acidity regulator in food items. It helps maintain and control the pH level, ensuring the taste and texture of the food remains consistent. Notably, you can find it in carbonated drinks, where it imparts a tangy or sour taste.
What Food Contain E338
E338 is found in a wide array of food and drink products. Some common examples include soda, cola, and other fizzy drinks. Besides, it’s also used in jams, sweets, canned foods, and even in some dairy products.
What is E338 made of?
Phosphoric acid or E338 is derived from phosphate rocks. It’s produced by a reaction involving the phosphate rock and sulfuric acid, followed by purification and concentration processes.
Is E338 Vegan?
Yes, E338 is vegan. It’s derived from non-animal sources, making it a vegan-friendly food additive. However, a few concerns need addressing when confirming a food additive as vegan.
Potential Animal Testing E338
Animal testing is a critical concern among the vegan community. While E338 itself is vegan-friendly, the food industry is known to resort to animal testing at times. While no specific data is available for animal testing of E338, it’s essential to be aware of this possibility.
Animal-Derived Ingredients E338
As mentioned, E338 is derived from phosphate rocks and doesn’t involve any animal products or by-products. It is indeed a safe choice for those following a vegan diet.
Origins and Production of E338
Phosphoric acid is produced from naturally occurring mineral deposits – phosphate rocks. The process of manufacturing E338 is entirely free from animal derivatives, aligning it with vegan principles.
E338 in a Vegan Diet
Given its non-animal origin, E338 can be included in a vegan diet. However, vegans must still be careful about other ingredients present in their food, as not all additives are vegan-friendly.
Is E338 Safe?
E338 is deemed safe by the Food Code and is widely accepted as a food additive globally. It’s critical, however, to consume it in moderate amounts as excessive intake can lead to health issues, such as weakened bone density.
Final Thoughts
While E338 is essentially vegan due to its mineral-based origins, it’s important for vegans to always stay informed and vigilant about their food choices. Remember to check the ingredient list of products to ensure they align with your dietary preferences. Understanding the nature and source of your food additives can significantly influence your nutrition and overall health.
