Phosphoric acid is made from the mineral phosphorus, which is found naturally in the body. It works with calcium to form strong bones and teeth.

How is phosphoric acid made?

In a wet process facility (see figure 1), phosphoric acid is produced by reacting sulfuric acid (H2SO4) with naturally occurring phosphate rock. The reaction also forms calcium sulfate (CaSO4), commonly referred to as gypsum.

Where is phosphoric acid found?

Phosphoric acid can be found in soft drinks, dairy products like milk, cottage cheese, and buttermilk, and other processed foods like cereal bars, flavored waters, bottled coffee beverages, and processed meats.