Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color)
E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator)
E160a (Beta-Carotene) is a fat-soluble orange carotenoid tetraterpenoid obtained by synthesis, fermentation of Blakeslea trispora, or plant extraction. INS 160a(i)/(ii), ADI is Not Specified, providing deep orange-yellow hues in dairy, juices, and fats.
E330 (Citric Acid) is a tricarboxylic organic acid produced by industrial fermentation of Aspergillus niger on carbohydrate substrates. INS 330, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the single most widely used acidulant, flavor enhancer, and metal chelator on Earth.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E330 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 330 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Sequestrant, Antioxidant Synergist |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | C6H8O7 (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) | Delivers bright citrus sourness; chelates pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe/Cu); activates pectin gelation |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Citrus beverages, candy/confectionery, jams, canned tomatoes, cheese curdling, soft drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Aspergillus fungal sugar fermentation), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1033) |
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