# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color)
E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)

E101 (Riboflavin / Vitamin B2) is an authorized yellow food colorant and essential micronutrient produced via microbial fermentation of Ashbya gossypii. INS 101(i), ADI is 0.5 mg/kg bw/day, commonly used to fortify cereals and color sauces.

View full E101: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 Yellow Color) spec sheet →

E412 (Guar Gum) is a natural galactomannan hydrocolloid extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). INS 412, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), boasting 8x the thickening power of cornstarch and hydrating completely in cold water.

View full E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

10 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E101 E412
INS / Codex Number
INS 101(i) INS 412
Functional Class
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Nutrient Fortificant Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
0.5 mg / kg body weight per day Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Primary Mechanism
Yellow chromophore acting as precursor to flavin coenzymes (FAD/FMN) Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear
Common Target Foods
Fortified breakfast cereals, baby foods, pasta, dairy desserts, energy drinks Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Microbial fermentation), Halal, Kosher 100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.450) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339)
Chemical Formula
C17H20N4O6
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility)

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