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

E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) vs. E627: Disodium Guanylate (GMP Umami Synergist)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent)
E627: Disodium Guanylate (GMP Umami Synergist)

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.

View full E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) spec sheet →

E627 (Disodium 5'-Guanylate / GMP) is the sodium salt of guanylic acid, a purine nucleotide naturally concentrated in dried shiitake mushrooms. INS 627, ADI is Not Specified, exhibiting massive 8x–30x synergistic umami amplification when paired with MSG.

View full E627: Disodium Guanylate (GMP Umami Synergist) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E422 E627
INS / Codex Number
INS 422 INS 627
Functional Class
Humectant, Solvent, Sweetener, Bodying Agent Flavor Enhancer (Purine Nucleotide Umami Synergist)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Specified (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
C3H8O3 (Propane-1,2,3-triol) C10H12N5Na2O8P · xH2O
Primary Mechanism
Strongly hygroscopic triol binds water molecules, lowering water activity (aw) and preventing staling Binds allosteric site on T1R1/T1R3 umami receptor, locking glutamate into the orthosteric binding pocket
Common Target Foods
Fondant icings, soft-baked cookies, energy bars, cake sponges, liqueur bodying Savory snack seasonings (Doritos, chips), instant ramen noodle seasoning packets, bouillon cubes
Dietary Compliance
Vegan (When derived from plant fats), Halal, Kosher Vegan (Microbial fermentation of tapioca/sugar), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1320) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.530)

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