Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) vs. E960: Steviol Glycosides (Reb-A / Stevia Extract)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)
E960: Steviol Glycosides (Reb-A / Stevia Extract)
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.
E960 (Steviol Glycosides / Rebaudioside A) is a natural zero-calorie sweetener water-extracted from the leaves of the Stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana). INS 960a, ADI is 4 mg/kg bw/day (as steviol equivalents), providing 250–350x sucrose sweetness.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E260 | E960 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 260 | INS 960a / 960c |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant | Natural High-Intensity Sweetener |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 4 mg / kg body weight per day (as steviol equivalents) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup | Natural zero-calorie sodas (Zevia), flavored yogurts, protein shakes, tabletop drops |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Stevia leaf water extraction), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS Notices (GRN 252) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CH3COOH (pKa 4.76) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 250 – 350x Sucrose (Reb-A >98%) |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.0 kcal / g kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin) |
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