# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) vs. E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color)
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) →

E101 (Riboflavin / Vitamin B2) is an authorized yellow food colorant and essential micronutrient produced via microbial fermentation of Ashbya gossypii. INS 101(i), ADI is 0.5 mg/kg bw/day, commonly used to fortify cereals and color sauces.

View full E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) spec sheet →
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas) →

E290 (Carbon Dioxide / CO2) is an authorized food additive functioning as a carbonating gas, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) preservative, and cryogenic freezing propellant. INS 290, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis).

View full E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color)
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
E-Number Code
E101 E290
INS / Codex Number
INS 101(i) INS 290
Functional Class
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Nutrient Fortificant Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
0.5 mg / kg body weight per day Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
C17H20N4O6 CO2
Primary Mechanism
Yellow chromophore acting as precursor to flavin coenzymes (FAD/FMN) Dissolves in water forming carbonic acid (H2CO3) for effervescence; displaces O2 in packaging to block aerobic mold growth
Common Target Foods
Fortified breakfast cereals, baby foods, pasta, dairy desserts, energy drinks Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Microbial fermentation), Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.450) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240)

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