E220: Sulfur Dioxide (Antioxidant & Wine Preservative) vs. E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E220 (Sulfur Dioxide / SO2) is an inorganic gas dissolved in water to generate bisulfite and sulfite ions, providing potent antimicrobial and polyphenol oxidase enzyme-inhibiting properties. INS 220, group ADI is 0.7 mg/kg bw/day.
E422 (Glycerol / Glycerin) is a sweet, viscous trihydroxy alcohol (polyol) obtained via lipid hydrolysis. INS 422, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), acting as an essential humectant, moisture retainer, and freeze-point depressant in baked goods and icings.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E220 | E422 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 220 | INS 422 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative, Antioxidant, Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor | Humectant, Solvent, Sweetener, Bodying Agent |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
SO2 | C3H8O3 (Propane-1,2,3-triol) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Molecular SO2 penetrates microbial membranes; bisulfite (HSO3-) cleaves disulfide bonds in enzymes and binds acetaldehyde | Strongly hygroscopic triol binds water molecules, lowering water activity (aw) and preventing staling |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Wines (Contains sulfites declaration >10mg/L), dried apricots, ciders, potato starch | Fondant icings, soft-baked cookies, energy bars, cake sponges, liqueur bodying |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Major Allergen Declaration Mandatory | Vegan (When derived from plant fats), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3862 - Banned on raw produce) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1320) |