Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 13 specifications. 13 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
L-Ascorbic Acid (E300, C6H8O6) is a water-soluble antioxidant, dough conditioner, and vitamin fortifier that scavenges dissolved oxygen, prevents fruit enzymatic browning, and cross-links wheat gluten disulfide bridges in commercial baking.
E338 (Phosphoric Acid / H3PO4) is a mineral inorganic acid providing a uniquely dry, tangy, astringent sourness. INS 338, group ADI is 40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus), the quintessential acidulant in cola beverages and processed cheeses.
Specification Comparison Table
13 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Chemical Formula
|
C₆H₈O₆ (Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol) | H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis / GRAS under FDA 21 CFR 182.3013) | 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) |
|
INS / E-Number
|
INS 300 / E300 | — |
|
Functional Classes
|
Antioxidant / Flour Treatment Agent / Sequestrant / Nutrient Supplement | — |
|
Solubility
|
330 g/L in water at 20°C | — |
|
Redox Potential
|
+0.06 V at pH 7.0 (readily donates two electrons to dehydroascorbic acid) | — |
|
E-Number Code
|
— | E338 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
— | INS 338 |
|
Functional Class
|
— | Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
— | Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
— | Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
— | Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
— | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) |
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