E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial) vs. E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
E290 (Carbon Dioxide / CO2) is an authorized food additive functioning as a carbonating gas, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) preservative, and cryogenic freezing propellant. INS 290, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis).
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E202 | E290 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 202 | INS 290 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Water-Soluble Antifungal) | Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H7KO2 | CO2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Dissociates into sorbic acid in food matrix, blocking substrate transport in fungal cells | Dissolves in water forming carbonic acid (H2CO3) for effervescence; displaces O2 in packaging to block aerobic mold growth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fruit juices, carbonated beverages, table syrups, dips, yogurt drinks, wine finishing | Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3640) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240) |