E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver)
Comparing 2 standards across 14 specifications. 14 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.
L-Ascorbic Acid (E300, C6H8O6) is a water-soluble antioxidant, dough conditioner, and vitamin fortifier that scavenges dissolved oxygen, prevents fruit enzymatic browning, and cross-links wheat gluten disulfide bridges in commercial baking.
Specification Comparison Table
14 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / GRAS under FDA 21 CFR 182.3013) |
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | — |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | — |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | — |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | — |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | — |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | — |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | — |
|
INS / E-Number
|
— | INS 300 / E300 |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | C₆H₈O₆ (Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol) |
|
Functional Classes
|
— | Antioxidant / Flour Treatment Agent / Sequestrant / Nutrient Supplement |
|
Solubility
|
— | 330 g/L in water at 20°C |
|
Redox Potential
|
— | +0.06 V at pH 7.0 (readily donates two electrons to dehydroascorbic acid) |