E160c: Paprika Extract (Capsanthin / Capsorubin) vs. E251: Sodium Nitrate (Chile Saltpeter / Slow Curing)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E160c (Paprika Extract / Oleoresin) is a natural lipid-soluble red-orange colorant extracted from dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum). INS 160c, ADI is 24 mg/kg bw/day, delivering rich reddish coloration to processed meats, seasonings, and dressings without spiciness.
E251 (Sodium Nitrate / NaNO3) is an inorganic salt serving as a slow-release chemical reservoir of nitrite in long-aged cured meats and hard cheeses. INS 251, ADI is 3.7 mg/kg bw/day, enzymatically reduced into nitrite over months of curing.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160c | E251 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160c | INS 251 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Orange) | Preservative, Curing Agent, Antimicrobial |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
24 mg / kg body weight per day | 3.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as nitrate ion) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Keto-carotenoid chromophores imparting heat-stable red color (capsaicin heat is removed) | Micrococcus and Staphylococcus bacterial nitrate reductase slowly converts nitrate (NO3-) into bioactive nitrite (NO2-) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chorizo, hot dog casings, marinades, snack seasonings, cheese dips | Prosciutto di Parma, dry-cured salamis, Gouda cheeses (prevents late blowing by Clostridium tyrobutyricum) |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Red pepper solvent extract), Halal, Kosher | Mineral synthesis, Halal, Kosher, Vegan compliance |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.345 | EFSA Authorized / FDA 9 CFR 424.21 |
|
Key Chromophores
|
Capsanthin (C40H56O3) and Capsorubin (C40H56O4) | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | NaNO3 |