# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E500: Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda / Ins 500ii)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
E500: Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda / Ins 500ii)

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.

View full E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) spec sheet →

E500 (Sodium Carbonates / Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO3) is a mineral salt leavening agent and pH buffer. INS 500(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing under heat and acid to produce carbon dioxide bubbles that expand cakes, cookies, and pretzel crusts.

View full E500: Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda / Ins 500ii) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E460 E500
INS / Codex Number
INS 460(i) INS 500(ii) (Bicarbonate) / 500(i) (Carbonate)
Functional Class
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer Raising / Leavening Agent, Acidity Regulator, Anti-Caking
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) NaHCO3 (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate)
Primary Mechanism
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration Thermal (>50°C) or acid neutralization releases CO2 gas: NaHCO3 + H+ -> Na+ + H2O + CO2
Common Target Foods
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods Baking powders, cookies, cakes, pretzel alkaline dips, effervescent drink tablets
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free 100% Vegan (Mineral Solvay process/Trona mining), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1736)

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