E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin) vs. E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 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.
E260 (Acetic Acid / Ethanoic acid) is a natural carboxylic acid produced via aerobic Acetobacter fermentation of ethanol. INS 260, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), giving vinegar its characteristic pungent sour flavor and pickling preservative action.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E162 | E260 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 162 | INS 260 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Purple) | Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C24H26N2O13 (Betanin glucoside) | CH3COOH (pKa 4.76) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Betanidin glycoside absorbing green light (535–538nm) to reflect intense magenta-red | Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Strawberry yogurt, berry ice creams, confectionery, fruit preparations | Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Beetroot juice extract), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.40) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005) |