E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
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.
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, highly soluble and active against yeasts and bacteria in acidic environments (pH < 4.5). INS 211, group ADI is 5 mg/kg bw/day, the standard antimicrobial in carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | E211 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | INS 211 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | 5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | C7H5NaO2 |