# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

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.

Comparing:
E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking)
E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

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.

View full E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking) spec sheet →

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.

View full E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan) spec sheet →

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)

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