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

E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative) vs. E414: Gum Arabic (Acacia Gum Emulsifier)

Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative)
E414: Gum Arabic (Acacia Gum Emulsifier)

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.

View full E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative) spec sheet →

E414 (Gum Arabic / Acacia Gum) is a complex arabinogalactan-protein glycoprotein exudate harvested from Acacia senegal trees. INS 414, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the premier film-forming emulsifier for citrus beverage flavor oils.

View full E414: Gum Arabic (Acacia Gum Emulsifier) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E200 E414
INS / Codex Number
INS 200 INS 414
Functional Class
Preservative (Antifungal, Antimicrobial) Emulsifier, Stabilizer, Encapsulating Agent, Prebiotic Fiber
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Primary Mechanism
Un-dissociated acid penetrates mold/yeast cell membranes, inhibiting enolase and dehydrogenase enzymes Amphiphilic glycoprotein anchors hydrophobic oil droplets while polysaccharide branches project into water, preventing coalescence
Common Target Foods
Cheese wraps, baked pastries, dried fruits, fermented pickles, wine stabilization Citrus soft drinks (Suspends essential oils), gummy candies, confectionery pan coatings, flavor spray drying
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Chemical synthesis), Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan (Wild Acacia tree gum), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3089) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1330)
Chemical Formula
C6H8O2
Chemical Structure
Arabinogalactan core covalently linked to hydroxyproline-rich peptide chains (~2% protein)

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