Analysis of Phosphate Content of Cola Drinks and an Attempt to Estimate the Phosphate Intake with These Drinks by Young Adults – A Pilot Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15611/nit.2025.41.01Keywords:
orthophosphates, phosphorus, beverages, food additives, mineralsAbstract
Aim: This study was designed as a pilot to determine the orthophosphate (PO₄³⁻) content of cola drinks available in Poland on the Wrocław market, attempt to estimate the amount of phosphorus (P) in soft drinks consumed by young adults (18-35 years old) and examine their level of knowledge about sources of PO₄³⁻ in the diet and the potential harm of their excess.
Methodology: The analysis of cola drinks was performed using Merck’s rapid reflectometer test. Asurvey was also conducted via the Google Forms platform.
Results: The analysis of cola drinks showed that the PO₄³⁻ content varied from 125 to 875 mg/l. The survey showed that the respondents have limited knowledge of the harmfulness of excess P and its presence in food. Declared consumption of cola drinks ranged from 250 to 9,000 ml/week. Coca-Cola Zero and the classic Coca-Cola were the most frequently chosen beverages. The average P intake of young adults with these beverages amounted from 23 to 267 mg/day.
Implications and recommendations: According to scientific reports, the stated daily intake of P should not cause health problems. Nevertheless, its daily intake should be monitored, especially for people with health issues such as kidney disease or hypoparathyroidism.
Originality/value: Monitoring the PO₄³⁻ content in processed foods is important due to the increasing popularity of this type of food and the assessment of the health risks associated with excess P in diet.
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