Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) vs. E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)
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.
E270 (L-Lactic Acid) is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus). INS 270, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), imparting a smooth, mild sour taste in dairy, beers, and bakery sourdoughs.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E211 | E270 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 211 | INS 270 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) | Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C7H5NaO2 | C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes | Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce | Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) |
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