E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial)
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.
E202 (Potassium Sorbate) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, offering 58% water solubility at room temperature. INS 202, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day, widely utilized in beverages, syrups, and cosmetics to block yeast fermentation.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | E202 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | INS 202 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | Preservative (Water-Soluble Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | 11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid equivalent) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | Dissociates into sorbic acid in food matrix, blocking substrate transport in fungal cells |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | Fruit juices, carbonated beverages, table syrups, dips, yogurt drinks, wine finishing |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher Certified |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3640) |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | C6H7KO2 |