E422: Glycerol (Glycerin Humectant & Solvent) vs. E965: Maltitol (Sugar Alcohol / 90% Sweetness)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 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.
E965 (Maltitol) is a disaccharide polyol sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenation of maltose derived from cornstarch. INS 965(i), ADI is Not Specified (Excessive consumption may have laxative effect), delivering 90% the sweetness of sugar with 2.1 kcal/g.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E422 | E965 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 422 | INS 965(i) (Powder) / 965(ii) (Syrup) |
|
Functional Class
|
Humectant, Solvent, Sweetener, Bodying Agent | Bulk Sweetener, Humectant, Texturizer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / Laxative warning required) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fondant icings, soft-baked cookies, energy bars, cake sponges, liqueur bodying | Sugar-free chocolates, sugar-free gummy bears, baked bars, chewing gum |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (When derived from plant fats), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Cornstarch origin), Halal, Kosher, Non-cariogenic |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1320) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1444) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H8O3 (Propane-1,2,3-triol) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Strongly hygroscopic triol binds water molecules, lowering water activity (aw) and preventing staling | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 90% Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 2.1 kcal / g (47% fewer calories than sugar) kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 35 (Maltitol powder) / 52 (Maltitol syrup) |