antioxidants, phosphates, and complexing agents

E338 — Orthophosphoric Acid

Acidity regulator - gives cola drinks their sharp taste

Also known as: Phosphoric Acid · Orthophosphoric Acid

Permissible

Yes — Halal

Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

Function Acidity regulator - gives cola drinks their sharp taste
Found in cola drinks, processed cheese & more
Source mineral (phosphate rock)

School of Thought Breakdown

Hanafi

Permitted

Maliki

Permitted

Shafi'i

Permitted

Hanbali

Permitted

Inorganic mineral acid - halal. Gives Coca-Cola and Pepsi their sharp tang.

What to do with this product

Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2

1

Safe to consume

E338 is permissible across all major schools of Islamic thought. No further verification is needed for this specific additive.

Permissible — no verification required
2

Still check the rest of the ingredients list

Other E-codes on the same label may have a different halal status. Use our database or scanner to verify each one.

Always verify the complete label

You're all clear for this additive

E338 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.

Scan the full label →
Background & Details

About E338

Miscellaneous - phosphoric acid and its salts Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

What is E338 made from?

  • mineral (phosphate rock)

Foods that commonly contain E338

Food Category Guide

E338 is common in processed cheese — see the full halal guide →

Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E338 (Orthophosphoric Acid) halal?

E338 (Orthophosphoric Acid) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

What is E338 used for?

E338 is used as a acidity regulator - gives cola drinks their sharp taste in food products.

What foods contain E338?

E338 (Orthophosphoric Acid) is commonly found in: cola drinks, processed cheese, meat products.

What is E338 made from?

E338 can be derived from the following sources: mineral (phosphate rock).

What are the other names for E338?

E338 may appear on food labels as: Phosphoric Acid, Orthophosphoric Acid.

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This information is for educational purposes only. For religious rulings, consult a qualified Islamic scholar or halal certification authority. E-code classifications may vary by source, manufacturing process, and school of thought.