E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) vs. E627: Disodium Guanylate (GMP Umami Synergist)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 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.
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.
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) |