E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E414: Gum Arabic (Acacia Gum Emulsifier)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
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.
E414 (Gum Arabic / Acacia Gum) is a complex arabinogalactan-protein glycoprotein exudate harvested from Acacia senegal trees. INS 414, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the premier film-forming emulsifier for citrus beverage flavor oils.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E414 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 414 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Emulsifier, Stabilizer, Encapsulating Agent, Prebiotic 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) | Amphiphilic glycoprotein anchors hydrophobic oil droplets while polysaccharide branches project into water, preventing coalescence |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Citrus soft drinks (Suspends essential oils), gummy candies, confectionery pan coatings, flavor spray drying |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Wild Acacia tree gum), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1330) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | — |
|
Chemical Structure
|
— | Arabinogalactan core covalently linked to hydroxyproline-rich peptide chains (~2% protein) |