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

E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)

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

Comparing:
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) →

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.

View full E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) spec sheet →
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) →

E338 (Phosphoric Acid / H3PO4) is a mineral inorganic acid providing a uniquely dry, tangy, astringent sourness. INS 338, group ADI is 40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus), the quintessential acidulant in cola beverages and processed cheeses.

View full E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E-Number Code
E101 E338
INS / Codex Number
INS 101(i) INS 338
Functional Class
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Nutrient Fortificant Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
0.5 mg / kg body weight per day 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus)
Chemical Formula
C17H20N4O6 H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15)
Primary Mechanism
Yellow chromophore acting as precursor to flavin coenzymes (FAD/FMN) Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth
Common Target Foods
Fortified breakfast cereals, baby foods, pasta, dairy desserts, energy drinks Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Microbial fermentation), Halal, Kosher Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.450) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073)

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