Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) vs. E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative)
E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
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.
E503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate / (NH4)HCO3) is a historic chemical leavening salt. INS 503(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing 100% into gaseous CO2, ammonia, and water at temperatures >60°C to create ultra-crisp, airy crackers and cookies.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E211 | E503 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 211 | INS 503(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) | Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C7H5NaO2 | (NH4)HCO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes | Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce | Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) |
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