E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) vs. E282: Calcium Propionate (Bread Anti-Mold)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
E270 (L-Lactic Acid) is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus). INS 270, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), imparting a smooth, mild sour taste in dairy, beers, and bakery sourdoughs.
E282 (Calcium Propionate) is the calcium salt of propionic acid, the premier mold and 'rope' bacteria inhibitor in industrial yeast-leavened bakery goods. INS 282, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), preserving sliced bread for weeks without retarding yeast activity.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E270 | E282 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 270 | INS 282 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent | Preservative (Bakery Anti-Mold & Anti-Rope) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) | Ca(C3H5O2)2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria | Propionate ion disrupts membrane transport in Penicillium molds and Bacillus mesentericus (rope bacteria) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses | Commercial sliced white/wheat bread, hamburger buns, tortillas, pita bread |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher | Vegan, Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1221) |