E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color) vs. E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E100 (Curcumin) is a natural diarylheptanoid yellow pigment extracted from the rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa). INS 100(i), ADI is 3 mg/kg bw/day, providing bright yellow-orange coloration in mustard, cheese, and curry powders.
E160a (Beta-Carotene) is a fat-soluble orange carotenoid tetraterpenoid obtained by synthesis, fermentation of Blakeslea trispora, or plant extraction. INS 160a(i)/(ii), ADI is Not Specified, providing deep orange-yellow hues in dairy, juices, and fats.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E100 | E160a |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 100(i) | INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange) | Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
3 mg / kg body weight per day | Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C21H20O6 | C40H56 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Light absorption at 420–430nm producing vibrant golden-yellow hue; polyphenol antioxidant activity | 11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Prepared mustard, curry seasonings, margarine, cheese rinds, confectionery | Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Turmeric root extraction), Halal, Kosher Certified | Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.600) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) |