E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 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.
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.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E170 | E412 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 170(i) | INS 412 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (White / Opacifier), Anti-Caking, Acidity Regulator, Nutrient | Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High refractive index light scattering creating white opacity; neutralizes acids to calcium salts and CO2 | Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chewing gum coatings, plant milks (Soy/Almond calcium fortification), baking powders, tablets | Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral limestone), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1191) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CaCO3 | — |
|
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
|
— | 2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility) |