Phosphoric acid is a triprotic mineral acid produced by the wet process (reacting phosphate rock with sulfuric acid) or the thermal process (burning elemental phosphorus). Food-grade phosphoric acid is manufactured using the high-purity thermal process to meet stringent quality standards. It is the primary acidulant in cola-type beverages.
It provides a distinctive sharp, tangy flavor. Phosphoric acid also serves as a pH adjuster and acidifying agent in sugar refining, dairy processing, and brewing. Its strong chelating properties make it effective at sequestering metal ions that can cause off-flavors and turbidity in beverages.
