E440: Pectin (Citrus & Apple Jam Gelling Fiber) vs. E968: Erythritol (Zero-Calorie Fermented Polyol)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
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.
E968 (Erythritol) is a four-carbon polyol produced by microbial fermentation of glucose by Moniliella pollinis. INS 968, ADI is Not Specified, delivering 70% the sweetness of sucrose with 0.0–0.2 kcal/g, zero GI, and 90% urinary excretion avoiding digestive distress.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E440 | E968 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 440(i) / 440(ii) | INS 968 |
|
Functional Class
|
Gelling Agent, Thickener, Stabilizer, Soluble Fiber | Non-Nutritive Bulk Sweetener, Flavor Enhancer, Humectant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Highest digestive tolerance among all polyols: 0.66–0.80 g/kg bw) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Fruit jams, marmalades, gummy confectionery, fruit preparations for yogurt, glazes | Keto baked goods, monk fruit/stevia blends (Swerve), zero-sugar confectionery |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Citrus peel/apple extraction), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Yeast fermentation of corn glucose), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1588) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (GRN 76) |
|
Primary Classes
|
High Methoxyl Pectin (HM, DE > 50%), Low Methoxyl Pectin (LM, DE < 50%) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
HM forms junction zones with sugar (Brix > 55%) + acid (pH < 3.5); LM gels with calcium ions (Ca2+) | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 70% Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.2 kcal / g (Legal EU/US: 0.0 kcal / g) kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin levels) |