E407: Carrageenan (Dairy Stabilizer Hydrocolloid) vs. E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E407 (Carrageenan) is a high-molecular-weight sulfated polygalactan extracted from red edible seaweeds (Chondrus crispus / Irish Moss). INS 407, ADI is 75 mg/kg bw/day, famed for stabilizing cocoa suspension in chocolate milk via kappa-casein binding.
E503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate / (NH4)HCO3) is a historic chemical leavening salt. INS 503(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing 100% into gaseous CO2, ammonia, and water at temperatures >60°C to create ultra-crisp, airy crackers and cookies.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E407 | E503 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 407 | INS 503(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Thickener, Gelling Agent, Emulsion Stabilizer | Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
75 mg / kg body weight per day | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Negative sulfate esters cross-link with positive charges on milk kappa-casein micelles | Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chocolate milks, whipping creams, plant-based milks, deli turkey meats (water binding) | Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Marine seaweed), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.620) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) |
|
Major Types
|
Kappa (Rigid brittle gel), Iota (Elastic thixotropic gel), Lambda (Non-gelling thickener) | — |
|
Chemical Formula
|
— | (NH4)HCO3 |