E202: Potassium Sorbate (Soluble Antimicrobial) vs. E440: Pectin (Citrus & Apple Jam Gelling Fiber)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
E202 (Potassium Sorbate) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, offering 58% water solubility at room temperature. INS 202, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day, widely utilized in beverages, syrups, and cosmetics to block yeast fermentation.
E440 (Pectin) is a complex heteropolysaccharide rich in alpha-(1->4)-linked D-galacturonic acid extracted from citrus peels and apple pomace. INS 440, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), the global gold standard gelling agent for jams, jellies, and fruit spreads.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E202 | E440 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 202 | INS 440(i) / 440(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Water-Soluble Antifungal) | Gelling Agent, Thickener, Stabilizer, Soluble Fiber |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid equivalent) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Dissociates into sorbic acid in food matrix, blocking substrate transport in fungal cells | HM forms junction zones with sugar (Brix > 55%) + acid (pH < 3.5); LM gels with calcium ions (Ca2+) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fruit juices, carbonated beverages, table syrups, dips, yogurt drinks, wine finishing | Fruit jams, marmalades, gummy confectionery, fruit preparations for yogurt, glazes |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Citrus peel/apple extraction), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3640) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1588) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C6H7KO2 | — |
|
Primary Classes
|
— | High Methoxyl Pectin (HM, DE > 50%), Low Methoxyl Pectin (LM, DE < 50%) |