Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) vs. E406: Agar-Agar (Seaweed Hydrocolloid Gel)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E406: Agar-Agar (Seaweed Hydrocolloid Gel)
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.
E406 (Agar-Agar) is a natural sulfated galactan polysaccharide hydrocolloid extracted from red algae seaweeds (Rhodophyta). INS 406, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), forming firm, brittle thermoreversible gels with huge hysteresis (melts at 85°C, sets at 35°C).
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E338 | E406 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 338 | INS 406 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt | Gelling Agent, Thickener, Stabilizer (Plant Gelatin Alternative) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth | Forms double helices that aggregate into rigid 3D water-trapping gel matrices |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks | Vegan jellies, Asian desserts (Yokan), confectionery glazes, microbiological agar plates |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Red marine algae), Halal, Kosher (Animal-gelatin free) |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1115) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) | — |
|
Chemical Components
|
— | Agarose (Gelling polymer) and Agaropektin (Sulfated polymer) |
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