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

E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas) vs. E306: Tocopherol-Rich Extract (Natural Vitamin E Antioxidant)

Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
E306: Tocopherol-Rich Extract (Natural Vitamin E Antioxidant)

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 →

E306 is a natural mixture of alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherols steam-distilled from vegetable oils (soybean, sunflower). INS 306, ADI is Not Limited, serving as the gold standard lipid-soluble antioxidant in fats and oils.

View full E306: Tocopherol-Rich Extract (Natural Vitamin E Antioxidant) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E290 E306
INS / Codex Number
INS 290 INS 306
Functional Class
Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant Antioxidant (Lipid Peroxidation Inhibitor)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Primary Mechanism
Dissolves in water forming carbonic acid (H2CO3) for effervescence; displaces O2 in packaging to block aerobic mold growth Free-radical scavenger donating phenolic hydrogen atoms to peroxyl radicals (ROO•), breaking lipid auto-oxidation chain
Common Target Foods
Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats Vegetable cooking oils, margarines, infant formula, fish oil capsules, potato crisps
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan (Plant oil distillate), Halal, Kosher Certified
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1890)
Chemical Formula
CO2
Active Isomers
d-Gamma-Tocopherol, d-Delta-Tocopherol, d-Alpha-Tocopherol

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