E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) vs. E509: Calcium Chloride (Firming Agent / Cheese Salt)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
E260 (Acetic Acid / Ethanoic acid) is a natural carboxylic acid produced via aerobic Acetobacter fermentation of ethanol. INS 260, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), giving vinegar its characteristic pungent sour flavor and pickling preservative action.
E509 (Calcium Chloride / CaCl2) is an inorganic calcium mineral salt. INS 509, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), serving as a crucial firming agent in canned tomatoes, tofu coagulant, and rennet coagulation restorer in pasteurized milk cheese making.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E260 | E509 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 260 | INS 509 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant | Firming Agent, Coagulant, Sequestrant, Electrolyte |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CH3COOH (pKa 4.76) | CaCl2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force | Divalent Ca2+ ions cross-link pectin galacturonan chains in plant cell walls and bridge casein micelles in milk |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup | Canned whole peeled tomatoes (prevents mushiness), pasteurized cheese vats, soy tofu coagulation, sports pickles |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Natural brine/limestone salt), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1193) |