E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E965: Maltitol (Sugar Alcohol / 90% Sweetness)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 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.
E965 (Maltitol) is a disaccharide polyol sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenation of maltose derived from cornstarch. INS 965(i), ADI is Not Specified (Excessive consumption may have laxative effect), delivering 90% the sweetness of sugar with 2.1 kcal/g.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E965 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 965(i) (Powder) / 965(ii) (Syrup) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Bulk Sweetener, Humectant, Texturizer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / Laxative warning required) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Sugar-free chocolates, sugar-free gummy bears, baked bars, chewing gum |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | Vegan (Cornstarch origin), Halal, Kosher, Non-cariogenic |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1444) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 90% Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 2.1 kcal / g (47% fewer calories than sugar) kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 35 (Maltitol powder) / 52 (Maltitol syrup) |