E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) vs. E140: Chlorophyll & Chlorophyllins (Green Color)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E101 (Riboflavin / Vitamin B2) is an authorized yellow food colorant and essential micronutrient produced via microbial fermentation of Ashbya gossypii. INS 101(i), ADI is 0.5 mg/kg bw/day, commonly used to fortify cereals and color sauces.
E140 (Chlorophyll) is the natural magnesium-porphyrin green pigment extracted from grass, alfalfa, and nettles. INS 140(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), utilized to restore vibrant botanical green color to confectionery, oils, and pasta.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E101 | E140 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 101(i) | INS 140(i) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Nutrient Fortificant | Food Color (Green) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.5 mg / kg body weight per day | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C17H20N4O6 | C55H72MgN4O5 (Chlorophyll a) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Yellow chromophore acting as precursor to flavin coenzymes (FAD/FMN) | Light absorption in red (660nm) and blue (430nm) spectra, reflecting vibrant botanical green |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fortified breakfast cereals, baby foods, pasta, dairy desserts, energy drinks | Pesto, spinach pasta, mint confectionery, olive oil blends, liqueurs |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Microbial fermentation), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Plant solvent extraction), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.450) | EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.125 |