E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative) vs. E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E200 (Sorbic Acid / 2,4-hexadienoic acid) is an unsaturated organic carboxylic acid preservative with broad antifungal and antimold activity. INS 200, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day (expressed as sorbic acid), active across acidic and neutral pH up to 6.5.
E202 (Potassium Sorbate) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, offering 58% water solubility at room temperature. INS 202, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day, widely utilized in beverages, syrups, and cosmetics to block yeast fermentation.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E200 | E202 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 200 | INS 202 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antifungal, Antimicrobial) | Preservative (Water-Soluble Antifungal) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid) | 11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid equivalent) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H8O2 | C6H7KO2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Un-dissociated acid penetrates mold/yeast cell membranes, inhibiting enolase and dehydrogenase enzymes | Dissociates into sorbic acid in food matrix, blocking substrate transport in fungal cells |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cheese wraps, baked pastries, dried fruits, fermented pickles, wine stabilization | Fruit juices, carbonated beverages, table syrups, dips, yogurt drinks, wine finishing |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Chemical synthesis), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher Certified |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3089) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3640) |