E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) vs. E509: Calcium Chloride (Firming Agent / Cheese Salt)
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.
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
|
E270 | E509 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 270 | INS 509 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent | Firming Agent, Coagulant, Sequestrant, Electrolyte |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) | CaCl2 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria | Divalent Ca2+ ions cross-link pectin galacturonan chains in plant cell walls and bridge casein micelles in milk |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses | Canned whole peeled tomatoes (prevents mushiness), pasteurized cheese vats, soy tofu coagulation, sports pickles |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Natural brine/limestone salt), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1193) |