E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) vs. E500: Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda / Ins 500ii)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
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.
E500 (Sodium Carbonates / Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO3) is a mineral salt leavening agent and pH buffer. INS 500(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing under heat and acid to produce carbon dioxide bubbles that expand cakes, cookies, and pretzel crusts.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E422 | E500 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 422 | INS 500(ii) (Bicarbonate) / 500(i) (Carbonate) |
|
Functional Class
|
Humectant, Solvent, Sweetener, Bodying Agent | Raising / Leavening Agent, Acidity Regulator, Anti-Caking |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H8O3 (Propane-1,2,3-triol) | NaHCO3 (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Strongly hygroscopic triol binds water molecules, lowering water activity (aw) and preventing staling | Thermal (>50°C) or acid neutralization releases CO2 gas: NaHCO3 + H+ -> Na+ + H2O + CO2 |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fondant icings, soft-baked cookies, energy bars, cake sponges, liqueur bodying | Baking powders, cookies, cakes, pretzel alkaline dips, effervescent drink tablets |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (When derived from plant fats), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Mineral Solvay process/Trona mining), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1320) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1736) |