E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin) vs. E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E162 (Beetroot Red / Betanin) is a water-soluble red-purple betacyanin pigment pressed or extracted from red beets (Beta vulgaris). INS 162, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), used in dairy, ice creams, and sausages.
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, highly soluble and active against yeasts and bacteria in acidic environments (pH < 4.5). INS 211, group ADI is 5 mg/kg bw/day, the standard antimicrobial in carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E162 | E211 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 162 | INS 211 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Purple) | Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C24H26N2O13 (Betanin glucoside) | C7H5NaO2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Betanidin glycoside absorbing green light (535–538nm) to reflect intense magenta-red | In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Strawberry yogurt, berry ice creams, confectionery, fruit preparations | Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Beetroot juice extract), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.40) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) |