E412: Guar Gum (Cold-Soluble Galactomannan) vs. E960: Steviol Glycosides (Reb-A / Stevia Extract)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
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.
E960 (Steviol Glycosides / Rebaudioside A) is a natural zero-calorie sweetener water-extracted from the leaves of the Stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana). INS 960a, ADI is 4 mg/kg bw/day (as steviol equivalents), providing 250–350x sucrose sweetness.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E412 | E960 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 412 | INS 960a / 960c |
|
Functional Class
|
Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer, Dietary Fiber | Natural High-Intensity Sweetener |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 4 mg / kg body weight per day (as steviol equivalents) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Gluten-free baked goods, salad dressings, ice creams, sauces, instant soup powders | Natural zero-calorie sodas (Zevia), flavored yogurts, protein shakes, tabletop drops |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Guar bean seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO | 100% Vegan (Stevia leaf water extraction), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1339) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS Notices (GRN 252) |
|
Mannose to Galactose Ratio
|
2 : 1 (High galactose substitution enables instant cold water solubility) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Entangles water molecules via extensive hydrogen bonding, producing high viscosity at low shear | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 250 – 350x Sucrose (Reb-A >98%) |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.0 kcal / g kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin) |