E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E471: Mono- & Diglycerides of Fatty Acids (Bread Softener)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
E471 is an authorized food emulsifier composed of glycerol esterified with one or two fatty acid chains (glycerol monostearate / monooleate). INS 471, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), globally recognized as the ultimate crumb softener and amylose complexing agent in bakery.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E460 | E471 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 460(i) | INS 471 |
|
Functional Class
|
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer | Emulsifier, Anti-Staling Agent, Crumb Softener, Defoamer |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration | Fatty acid chain complexes into helical starch amylose cavity, preventing retrogradation staling |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods | Sliced sandwich bread, margarines, ice creams, peanut butter (Prevents oil separation), cake mixes |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free | Vegan (When derived from palm/sunflower oil; animal fat variants must be labeled) |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1505) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) | — |
|
Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB)
|
— | 3.5 – 4.5 (Lipophilic water-in-oil emulsifier) |