# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color) vs. E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color)
E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)
E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color) →

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.

View full E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color) spec sheet →
E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) →

E270 (L-Lactic Acid) is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus). INS 270, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), imparting a smooth, mild sour taste in dairy, beers, and bakery sourdoughs.

View full E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color)
E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)
E-Number Code
E100 E270
INS / Codex Number
INS 100(i) INS 270
Functional Class
Food Color (Yellow-Orange) Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
3 mg / kg body weight per day Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
C21H20O6 C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86)
Primary Mechanism
Light absorption at 420–430nm producing vibrant golden-yellow hue; polyphenol antioxidant activity Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria
Common Target Foods
Prepared mustard, curry seasonings, margarine, cheese rinds, confectionery Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Turmeric root extraction), Halal, Kosher Certified 100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.600) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061)

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