E100: Curcumin (Turmeric Yellow Color) vs. E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver)
Comparing 2 standards across 13 specifications. 13 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.
L-Ascorbic Acid (E300, C6H8O6) is a water-soluble antioxidant, dough conditioner, and vitamin fortifier that scavenges dissolved oxygen, prevents fruit enzymatic browning, and cross-links wheat gluten disulfide bridges in commercial baking.
Specification Comparison Table
13 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
3 mg / kg body weight per day | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / GRAS under FDA 21 CFR 182.3013) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C21H20O6 | C₆H₈O₆ (Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol) |
|
E-Number Code
|
E100 | — |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 100(i) | — |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Light absorption at 420–430nm producing vibrant golden-yellow hue; polyphenol antioxidant activity | — |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Prepared mustard, curry seasonings, margarine, cheese rinds, confectionery | — |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Turmeric root extraction), Halal, Kosher Certified | — |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.600) | — |
|
INS / E-Number
|
— | INS 300 / E300 |
|
Functional Classes
|
— | Antioxidant / Flour Treatment Agent / Sequestrant / Nutrient Supplement |
|
Solubility
|
— | 330 g/L in water at 20°C |
|
Redox Potential
|
— | +0.06 V at pH 7.0 (readily donates two electrons to dehydroascorbic acid) |