Phosphoric acid, also known as orthophosphoric acid, is a weak acid with a sour flavor but no odor or color. It is viscous when sold in liquid form and crystalline as a solid. Although it is sought after in many industries, phosphoric acid has a variety of uses in food and beverage production. Bell Chem, your food ingredient supplier, shares many methods phosphoric acid improves the foods we consume.

Improves Food Quality

As a weak acid, phosphoric acid is often added to amend pH levels to improve product properties. It also makes products last longer. Bacteria and mold thrive in sugary foods and beverages. Phosphoric acid inhibits microbial growth, which increases shelf life. When added to processed meat (luncheon meats, sausage, bacon, et cetera), phosphoric acid stabilizes the texture of processed meats and increases shelf life.

Additive

A list of ingredients on a package may show dicalcium phosphate, hexametaphosphate, sodium phosphate, or tricalcium phosphate. All these additives are derived from phosphoric acid plus other chemicals or ingredients.

Flavor Enhancer

In dark carbonated beverages (clear sodas tend to rely on citric acid) and jams, phosphoric acid accentuates a product’s sharp, tangy taste because of its acidity and fruity flavor. 

Nutrient

Phosphoric acid acts as a food source for yeast, and is often employed as an ingredient to leaven baked goods. Baking soda plus phosphoric acid and a second acid create baking powder. This nutrient is also helpful in alcoholic beverages. As wine is aged, phosphoric acid feeds yeast as it quells bacterial growth.

Protein Modifier

Especially in dairy products, phosphoric acid salts chemically modifies the protein structure increasing the likelihood of coagulation. Examples include cream cheese, hard cheese and buttermilk. The cheese industry has determined that phosphoric acid outstrips most other acids in its ability to firm hard cheeses. This additive is also used in foods and beverages touting high protein levels, which generally contain whey, a basic chemical. As a weak acid, phosphoric acid balances the pH of the product while enhancing flavor.

Bell Chem is your food ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including phosphoric acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.