E160c: Paprika Extract (Capsanthin / Capsorubin) vs. E968: Erythritol (Zero-Calorie Fermented Polyol)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
E160c (Paprika Extract / Oleoresin) is a natural lipid-soluble red-orange colorant extracted from dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum). INS 160c, ADI is 24 mg/kg bw/day, delivering rich reddish coloration to processed meats, seasonings, and dressings without spiciness.
E968 (Erythritol) is a four-carbon polyol produced by microbial fermentation of glucose by Moniliella pollinis. INS 968, ADI is Not Specified, delivering 70% the sweetness of sucrose with 0.0–0.2 kcal/g, zero GI, and 90% urinary excretion avoiding digestive distress.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160c | E968 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160c | INS 968 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Orange) | Non-Nutritive Bulk Sweetener, Flavor Enhancer, Humectant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
24 mg / kg body weight per day | Not Specified (Highest digestive tolerance among all polyols: 0.66–0.80 g/kg bw) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chorizo, hot dog casings, marinades, snack seasonings, cheese dips | Keto baked goods, monk fruit/stevia blends (Swerve), zero-sugar confectionery |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Red pepper solvent extract), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Yeast fermentation of corn glucose), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.345 | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (GRN 76) |
|
Key Chromophores
|
Capsanthin (C40H56O3) and Capsorubin (C40H56O4) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Keto-carotenoid chromophores imparting heat-stable red color (capsaicin heat is removed) | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 70% Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.2 kcal / g (Legal EU/US: 0.0 kcal / g) kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin levels) |