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

E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) vs. E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)

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

Comparing:
E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent)
E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat 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 →

E631 (Disodium 5'-Inosinate / IMP) is the sodium salt of inosinic acid, a purine nucleotide naturally found in aged beef, katsuobushi bonito flakes, and cured meats. INS 631, ADI is Not Specified, multiplying glutamate umami flavor.

View full E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E422 E631
INS / Codex Number
INS 422 INS 631
Functional Class
Humectant, Solvent, Sweetener, Bodying Agent Flavor Enhancer (Meat Purine Umami Synergist)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Specified (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
C3H8O3 (Propane-1,2,3-triol) C10H11N4Na2O8P · xH2O
Primary Mechanism
Strongly hygroscopic triol binds water molecules, lowering water activity (aw) and preventing staling Allosteric conformational stabilizer of human T1R1/T1R3 G-protein umami receptor heterodimer
Common Target Foods
Fondant icings, soft-baked cookies, energy bars, cake sponges, liqueur bodying Instant soups, meat seasonings, potato chips, canned meat gravies, cured snacks
Dietary Compliance
Vegan (When derived from plant fats), Halal, Kosher Vegan (Bacterial Corynebacterium fermentation standard), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1320) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.535)

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