Diet coke caffeine free

What it is. A strong food acid that gives cola drinks their sharpness.

Why it is used. Used in colas and some processed foods to control acidity.

What the evidence says. EFSA set a group acceptable daily intake for phosphates in 2019 and noted that high consumers, particularly children, can exceed it once all sources are counted. The concern is total phosphate intake across the diet rather than one drink, and it matters most for people with reduced kidney function.

Permitted with maximum levels, under a group limit shared with the other phosphate additives.

Assessed against EFSA. Full entry for E338

What it is. An intense sweetener around 200 times sweeter than sugar, used in tiny amounts.

Why it is used. Sweetens diet drinks, sugar free gum and low calorie desserts.

What the evidence says. In 2023 IARC listed it as possibly carcinogenic, its weakest evidence tier. At the same time the expert intake committee JECFA kept the safe daily limit unchanged, noting you would need a very high daily intake to approach it, roughly a dozen or more cans of diet drink a day for an adult. So headline scary, practically low concern for normal use.

Permitted with an acceptable daily intake. People with the condition PKU must avoid it, which is why packs carry a phenylalanine note.

Assessed against IARC, JECFA, EFSA. Full entry for E951

What it is. A mild acid found naturally in citrus fruit, made commercially by fermentation.

Why it is used. Adds tartness, balances flavour and helps preserve. One of the most used additives in food.

What the evidence says. Safe at food levels. No credible health concern for the additive itself.

Permitted freely.

Assessed against EFSA, JECFA. Full entry for E330