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.
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.
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.
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) |