E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking) vs. E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 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.
E460 (Microcrystalline Cellulose / MCC) is purified, depolymerized wood pulp cellulose prepared by acid hydrolysis. INS 460(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), functioning as a zero-calorie bulking agent, anti-caking agent, and fat mimetic in low-calorie foods.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E170 | E460 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 170(i) | INS 460(i) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (White / Opacifier), Anti-Caking, Acidity Regulator, Nutrient | Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CaCO3 | (C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High refractive index light scattering creating white opacity; neutralizes acids to calcium salts and CO2 | Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chewing gum coatings, plant milks (Soy/Almond calcium fortification), baking powders, tablets | Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral limestone), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1191) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) |