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

E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

Comparing 2 standards across 14 specifications. 14 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver)
E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

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.

View full E300: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C Antioxidant & Flour Improver) spec sheet →

E412 (Guar Gum) is a natural galactomannan hydrocolloid extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). INS 412, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), boasting 8x the thickening power of cornstarch and hydrating completely in cold water.

View full E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

14 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Specified (Quantum Satis / GRAS under FDA 21 CFR 182.3013) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
INS / E-Number
INS 300 / E300
Chemical Formula
C₆H₈O₆ (Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol)
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
E412
INS / Codex Number
INS 412
Functional Class
Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility)
Primary Mechanism
Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear
Common Target Foods
Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339)

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