E330: Citric Acid (Universal Acidulant / Chelator) vs. E965: Maltitol (Sugar Alcohol / 90% Sweetness)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
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.
E965 (Maltitol) is a disaccharide polyol sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenation of maltose derived from cornstarch. INS 965(i), ADI is Not Specified (Excessive consumption may have laxative effect), delivering 90% the sweetness of sugar with 2.1 kcal/g.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E330 | E965 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 330 | INS 965(i) (Powder) / 965(ii) (Syrup) |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Sequestrant, Antioxidant Synergist | Bulk Sweetener, Humectant, Texturizer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / Laxative warning required) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Citrus beverages, candy/confectionery, jams, canned tomatoes, cheese curdling, soft drinks | Sugar-free chocolates, sugar-free gummy bears, baked bars, chewing gum |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Aspergillus fungal sugar fermentation), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Cornstarch origin), Halal, Kosher, Non-cariogenic |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1033) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1444) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H8O7 (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Delivers bright citrus sourness; chelates pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe/Cu); activates pectin gelation | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 90% Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 2.1 kcal / g (47% fewer calories than sugar) kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 35 (Maltitol powder) / 52 (Maltitol syrup) |