E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) vs. E414: Gum Arabic (Acacia Gum Emulsifier)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 9 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.
E414 (Gum Arabic / Acacia Gum) is a complex arabinogalactan-protein glycoprotein exudate harvested from Acacia senegal trees. INS 414, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the premier film-forming emulsifier for citrus beverage flavor oils.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E270 | E414 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 270 | INS 414 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent | Emulsifier, Stabilizer, Encapsulating Agent, Prebiotic Fiber |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria | Amphiphilic glycoprotein anchors hydrophobic oil droplets while polysaccharide branches project into water, preventing coalescence |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses | Citrus soft drinks (Suspends essential oils), gummy candies, confectionery pan coatings, flavor spray drying |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Wild Acacia tree gum), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1330) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) | — |
|
Chemical Structure
|
— | Arabinogalactan core covalently linked to hydroxyproline-rich peptide chains (~2% protein) |