Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas) vs. E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E290: Carbon Dioxide (Carbonation & MAP Gas)
E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
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).
E503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate / (NH4)HCO3) is a historic chemical leavening salt. INS 503(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing 100% into gaseous CO2, ammonia, and water at temperatures >60°C to create ultra-crisp, airy crackers and cookies.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E290 | E503 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 290 | INS 503(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Carbonating Gas, Packaging Gas, Preservative, Propellant | Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CO2 | (NH4)HCO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Dissolves in water forming carbonic acid (H2CO3) for effervescence; displaces O2 in packaging to block aerobic mold growth | Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Carbonated soft drinks, sparkling water, beer, champagne, MAP bagged salads, fresh meats | Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1240) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) |
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