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

E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) vs. E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) →

E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, highly soluble and active against yeasts and bacteria in acidic environments (pH < 4.5). INS 211, group ADI is 5 mg/kg bw/day, the standard antimicrobial in carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices.

View full E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) spec sheet →
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) →

E260 (Acetic Acid / Ethanoic acid) is a natural carboxylic acid produced via aerobic Acetobacter fermentation of ethanol. INS 260, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), giving vinegar its characteristic pungent sour flavor and pickling preservative action.

View full E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)
E-Number Code
E211 E260
INS / Codex Number
INS 211 INS 260
Functional Class
Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
C7H5NaO2 CH3COOH (pKa 4.76)
Primary Mechanism
In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force
Common Target Foods
Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup
Dietary Compliance
Vegan, Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005)

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