Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative) vs. E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative)
E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator)
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.
E330 (Citric Acid) is a tricarboxylic organic acid produced by industrial fermentation of Aspergillus niger on carbohydrate substrates. INS 330, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the single most widely used acidulant, flavor enhancer, and metal chelator on Earth.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E200 | E330 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 200 | INS 330 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antifungal, Antimicrobial) | Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Sequestrant, Antioxidant Synergist |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H8O2 | C6H8O7 (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Un-dissociated acid penetrates mold/yeast cell membranes, inhibiting enolase and dehydrogenase enzymes | Delivers bright citrus sourness; chelates pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe/Cu); activates pectin gelation |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cheese wraps, baked pastries, dried fruits, fermented pickles, wine stabilization | Citrus beverages, candy/confectionery, jams, canned tomatoes, cheese curdling, soft drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Chemical synthesis), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Aspergillus fungal sugar fermentation), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3089) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1033) |
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