Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color)
E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)
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.
E412 (Guar Gum) is a natural galactomannan hydrocolloid extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). INS 412, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), boasting 8x the thickening power of cornstarch and hydrating completely in cold water.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E412 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 412 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) | Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | — |
|
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
|
— | 2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility) |
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