E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin) vs. E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking)
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.
E170 (Calcium Carbonate / CaCO3) is a fine mineral salt mined from limestone or precipitated synthetically. INS 170(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), serving as a white surface colorant, acidity buffer, anti-caking agent, and calcium nutrient fortificant.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E162 | E170 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 162 | INS 170(i) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Purple) | Food Color (White / Opacifier), Anti-Caking, Acidity Regulator, Nutrient |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C24H26N2O13 (Betanin glucoside) | CaCO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Betanidin glycoside absorbing green light (535–538nm) to reflect intense magenta-red | High refractive index light scattering creating white opacity; neutralizes acids to calcium salts and CO2 |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Strawberry yogurt, berry ice creams, confectionery, fruit preparations | Chewing gum coatings, plant milks (Soy/Almond calcium fortification), baking powders, tablets |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Beetroot juice extract), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral limestone), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.40) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1191) |