E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking) vs. E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
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
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E170 | E211 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 170(i) | INS 211 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (White / Opacifier), Anti-Caking, Acidity Regulator, Nutrient | Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CaCO3 | C7H5NaO2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High refractive index light scattering creating white opacity; neutralizes acids to calcium salts and CO2 | In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chewing gum coatings, plant milks (Soy/Almond calcium fortification), baking powders, tablets | Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral limestone), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1191) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) |