E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas) vs. E440: Pectin (Citrus & Apple Jam Gelling Fiber)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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).
E440 (Pectin) is a complex heteropolysaccharide rich in alpha-(1->4)-linked D-galacturonic acid extracted from citrus peels and apple pomace. INS 440, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the global gold standard gelling agent for jams, jellies, and fruit spreads.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E290 | E440 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 290 | INS 440(i) / 440(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant | Gelling Agent, Thickener, Stabilizer, Soluble Fiber |
|
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 | HM forms junction zones with sugar (Brix > 55%) + acid (pH < 3.5); LM gels with calcium ions (Ca2+) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats | Fruit jams, marmalades, gummy confectionery, fruit preparations for yogurt, glazes |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Citrus peel/apple extraction), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1588) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CO2 | — |
|
Primary Classes
|
— | High Methoxyl Pectin (HM, DE > 50%), Low Methoxyl Pectin (LM, DE < 50%) |