# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin)
E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

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.

View full E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin) spec sheet →

E412 (Guar Gum) is a natural galactomannan hydrocolloid extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). INS 412, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), boasting 8x the thickening power of cornstarch and hydrating completely in cold water.

View full E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E162 E412
INS / Codex Number
INS 162 INS 412
Functional Class
Food Color (Red-Purple) Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Primary Mechanism
Betanidin glycoside absorbing green light (535–538nm) to reflect intense magenta-red Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear
Common Target Foods
Strawberry yogurt, berry ice creams, confectionery, fruit preparations Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Beetroot juice extract), Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.40) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339)
Chemical Formula
C24H26N2O13 (Betanin glucoside)
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility)

Other Alternatives to Compare

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