Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) vs. E440: Pectin (Citrus & Apple Jam Gelling Fiber)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E440: Pectin (Citrus & Apple Jam Gelling Fiber)
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.
E440 (Pectin) is a complex heteropolysaccharide rich in alpha-(1->4)-linked D-galacturonic acid extracted from citrus peels and apple pomace. INS 440, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the global gold standard gelling agent for jams, jellies, and fruit spreads.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E338 | E440 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 338 | INS 440(i) / 440(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt | Gelling Agent, Thickener, Stabilizer, Soluble Fiber |
|
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 | HM forms junction zones with sugar (Brix > 55%) + acid (pH < 3.5); LM gels with calcium ions (Ca2+) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks | Fruit jams, marmalades, gummy confectionery, fruit preparations for yogurt, glazes |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Citrus peel/apple extraction), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1588) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) | — |
|
Primary Classes
|
— | High Methoxyl Pectin (HM, DE > 50%), Low Methoxyl Pectin (LM, DE < 50%) |
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