E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E163: Anthocyanins (Grape Skin & Berry Red/Purple)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E150d (Class IV Caramel) is prepared by heating carbohydrates with both sulfite and ammonium compounds, creating an intensely dark, negatively charged colloid. INS 150d, group ADI is 300 mg/kg bw/day, the global color standard in cola soft drinks.
E163 (Anthocyanins) are natural water-soluble flavonoid polyphenol pigments extracted from grape skins, elderberries, and black carrots. INS 163, ADI is 2.5 mg/kg bw/day (grape skin extract), exhibiting pH-dependent colors from red to blue.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | E163 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | INS 163(i)–(v) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | Food Color (Red, Purple, Blue) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | 2.5 mg / kg body weight per day (as anthocyanins) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | Flavylium cation red at pH 1–3, converting to blue quinoidal base at neutral/alkaline pH |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | Red fruit beverages, sports drinks, jams, jellies, wine gums |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Fruit/Vegetable extraction), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.170 |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Key Flavylium Cations
|
— | Cyanidin, Delphinidin, Malvidin, Peonidin, Petunidin |