E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant) vs. E627: Disodium Guanylate (GMP Umami Synergist)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
E627 (Disodium 5'-Guanylate / GMP) is the sodium salt of guanylic acid, a purine nucleotide naturally concentrated in dried shiitake mushrooms. INS 627, ADI is Not Specified, exhibiting massive 8x–30x synergistic umami amplification when paired with MSG.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E338 | E627 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 338 | INS 627 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt | Flavor Enhancer (Purine Nucleotide Umami Synergist) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) | C10H12N5Na2O8P · xH2O |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth | Binds allosteric site on T1R1/T1R3 umami receptor, locking glutamate into the orthosteric binding pocket |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks | Savory snack seasonings (Doritos, chips), instant ramen noodle seasoning packets, bouillon cubes |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Microbial fermentation of tapioca/sugar), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.530) |