E150d: Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV Caramel) vs. E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E150d (Class IV Caramel) is prepared by heating carbohydrates with both sulfite and ammonium compounds, creating an intensely dark, negatively charged colloid. INS 150d, group ADI is 300 mg/kg bw/day, the global color standard in cola soft drinks.
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.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E150d | E412 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 150d | INS 412 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Deep Brown / Black) | Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
300 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI for caramel colors) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High tinctorial power melanoidin polymers soluble and stable in carbonated phosphoric acid matrix | Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Cola soft drinks, dark beers/stouts, gravies, pet foods, soy sauce | Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Sugar/syrup base), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (Strictly controlled 4-MEI limits) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339) |
|
Isoelectric Point & Charge
|
Strong negative colloidal charge (pH 0.5–2.0) preventing precipitation in acid sodas | — |
|
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
|
— | 2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility) |