E334: L-Tartaric Acid (Wine & Baking Acidulant) vs. E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E334 (L(+)-Tartaric Acid) is a dicarboxylic organic acid recovered as potassium bitartrate by-product from wine barrels. INS 334, ADI has historically been set at up to 20 mg/kg bw/day by JECFA, delivering a sharp, lingering tartness in candies, soft drinks, and baking powders.
E460 (Microcrystalline Cellulose / MCC) is purified, depolymerized wood pulp cellulose prepared by acid hydrolysis. INS 460(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), functioning as a zero-calorie bulking agent, anti-caking agent, and fat mimetic in low-calorie foods.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E334 | E460 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 334 | INS 460(i) |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Synergist for Antioxidants | Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Historically up to 20 mg / kg body weight per day (JECFA: 0–6 mg/kg unconditional + 6–20 mg/kg conditional acceptance) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C4H6O6 (2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid) | (C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Stronger sourness profile than citric acid (pKa1 2.98), stimulating salivation and activating baking soda | Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Hard sour candies, baking powder (Cream of tartar), grape beverages, wine adjustment | Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Wine by-product), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1099) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) |