E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) vs. E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver)
Comparing 2 standards across 13 specifications. 13 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.
L-Ascorbic Acid (E300, C6H8O6) is a water-soluble antioxidant, dough conditioner, and vitamin fortifier that scavenges dissolved oxygen, prevents fruit enzymatic browning, and cross-links wheat gluten disulfide bridges in commercial baking.
Specification Comparison Table
13 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / GRAS under FDA 21 CFR 182.3013) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
SO2 | C₆H₈O₆ (Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol) |
|
E-Number Code
|
E220 | — |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 220 | — |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative, Antioxidant, Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Molecular SO2 penetrates microbial membranes; bisulfite (HSO3-) cleaves disulfide bonds in enzymes and binds acetaldehyde | — |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Wines (Contains sulfites declaration >10mg/L), dried apricots, ciders, potato starch | — |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Major Allergen Declaration Mandatory | — |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3862 - Banned on raw produce) | — |
|
INS / E-Number
|
— | INS 300 / E300 |
|
Functional Classes
|
— | Antioxidant / Flour Treatment Agent / Sequestrant / Nutrient Supplement |
|
Solubility
|
— | 330 g/L in water at 20°C |
|
Redox Potential
|
— | +0.06 V at pH 7.0 (readily donates two electrons to dehydroascorbic acid) |