E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) vs. E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
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.
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
|
E220 | E290 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 220 | INS 290 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative, Antioxidant, Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor | Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
SO2 | CO2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Molecular SO2 penetrates microbial membranes; bisulfite (HSO3-) cleaves disulfide bonds in enzymes and binds acetaldehyde | Dissolves in water forming carbonic acid (H2CO3) for effervescence; displaces O2 in packaging to block aerobic mold growth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Wines (Contains sulfites declaration >10mg/L), dried apricots, ciders, potato starch | Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Major Allergen Declaration Mandatory | 100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3862 - Banned on raw produce) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240) |