E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E150d (Class IV Caramel) is prepared by heating carbohydrates with both sulfite and ammonium compounds, creating an intensely dark, negatively charged colloid. INS 150d, group ADI is 300 mg/kg bw/day, the global color standard in cola soft drinks.
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
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | E160a |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | 11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | C40H56 |