E163: Anthocyanins (Grape Skin & Berry Red/Purple) vs. E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
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.
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
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E163 | E211 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 163(i)–(v) | INS 211 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red, Purple, Blue) | Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
2.5 mg / kg body weight per day (as anthocyanins) | 5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Flavylium cation red at pH 1–3, converting to blue quinoidal base at neutral/alkaline pH | In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Red fruit beverages, sports drinks, jams, jellies, wine gums | Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Fruit/Vegetable extraction), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.170 | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) |
|
Key Flavylium Cations
|
Cyanidin, Delphinidin, Malvidin, Peonidin, Petunidin | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | C7H5NaO2 |