E306: Tocopherol-Rich Extract (Natural Vitamin E Antioxidant) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E306 is a natural mixture of alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherols steam-distilled from vegetable oils (soybean, sunflower). INS 306, ADI is Not Limited, serving as the gold standard lipid-soluble antioxidant in fats and oils.
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
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E306 | E338 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 306 | INS 338 |
|
Functional Class
|
Antioxidant (Lipid Peroxidation Inhibitor) | Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Free-radical scavenger donating phenolic hydrogen atoms to peroxyl radicals (ROO•), breaking lipid auto-oxidation chain | Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Vegetable cooking oils, margarines, infant formula, fish oil capsules, potato crisps | Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant oil distillate), Halal, Kosher Certified | Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1890) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) |
|
Active Isomers
|
d-Gamma-Tocopherol, d-Delta-Tocopherol, d-Alpha-Tocopherol | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) |