E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) vs. E967: Xylitol (Birch Sugar / Dental Caries Inhibitor)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 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.
E967 (Xylitol) is a five-carbon polyol sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenation of xylose from birch wood or corn cobs. INS 967, ADI is Not Specified, offering 100% 1:1 sugar sweetness, a cooling endothermic mouthfeel, and active inhibition of Streptococcus mutans cavity bacteria.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E260 | E967 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 260 | INS 967 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant | Bulk Sweetener, Anti-Cariogenic Dental Agent, Humectant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / Toxic to dogs warning) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup | Dental chewing gums (Orbit/Trident), sugar-free mints, toothpastes, diabetic baking |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Plant birch/corn source), Halal, Kosher, High Canine Toxicity Warning |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005) | EFSA Authorized / FDA Approved (21 CFR 172.395) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CH3COOH (pKa 4.76) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 100% Sucrose (Exact 1:1 sweetness match) |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 2.4 kcal / g (40% fewer calories than sugar) kcal/g |
|
Heat of Solution (Cooling)
|
— | -36.5 cal/g (Strong refreshing cooling mouth sensation) cal/g |