Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
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.
E338 (Phosphoric Acid / H3PO4) is a mineral inorganic acid providing a uniquely dry, tangy, astringent sourness. INS 338, group ADI is 40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus), the quintessential acidulant in cola beverages and processed cheeses.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E200 | E338 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 200 | INS 338 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antifungal, Antimicrobial) | Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid) | 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H8O2 | H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Un-dissociated acid penetrates mold/yeast cell membranes, inhibiting enolase and dehydrogenase enzymes | Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cheese wraps, baked pastries, dried fruits, fermented pickles, wine stabilization | Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Chemical synthesis), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3089) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) |
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