# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) →

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.

View full E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) spec sheet →
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) →

E338 (Phosphoric Acid / H3PO4) is a mineral inorganic acid providing a uniquely dry, tangy, astringent sourness. INS 338, group ADI is 40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus), the quintessential acidulant in cola beverages and processed cheeses.

View full E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E-Number Code
E220 E338
INS / Codex Number
INS 220 INS 338
Functional Class
Preservative, Antioxidant, Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus)
Chemical Formula
SO2 H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15)
Primary Mechanism
Molecular SO2 penetrates microbial membranes; bisulfite (HSO3-) cleaves disulfide bonds in enzymes and binds acetaldehyde Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth
Common Target Foods
Wines (Contains sulfites declaration >10mg/L), dried apricots, ciders, potato starch Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks
Dietary Compliance
Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Major Allergen Declaration Mandatory Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3862 - Banned on raw produce) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073)

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