E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) vs. E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E220 (Sulfur Dioxide / SO2) is an inorganic gas dissolved in water to generate bisulfite and sulfite ions, providing potent antimicrobial and polyphenol oxidase enzyme-inhibiting properties. INS 220, group ADI is 0.7 mg/kg bw/day.
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
|
E220 | E270 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 220 | INS 270 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative, Antioxidant, Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor | Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
SO2 | C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Molecular SO2 penetrates microbial membranes; bisulfite (HSO3-) cleaves disulfide bonds in enzymes and binds acetaldehyde | Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Wines (Contains sulfites declaration >10mg/L), dried apricots, ciders, potato starch | Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Major Allergen Declaration Mandatory | 100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3862 - Banned on raw produce) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) |