Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E202 (Potassium Sorbate) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, offering 58% water solubility at room temperature. INS 202, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day, widely utilized in beverages, syrups, and cosmetics to block yeast fermentation.
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
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E202 | E338 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 202 | INS 338 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Water-Soluble Antifungal) | Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid equivalent) | 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H7KO2 | H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Dissociates into sorbic acid in food matrix, blocking substrate transport in fungal cells | Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fruit juices, carbonated beverages, table syrups, dips, yogurt drinks, wine finishing | Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher Certified | Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3640) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) |
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