Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E501: Potassium Carbonate (Potash / Alkaline Noodle Salt)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
E501: Potassium Carbonate (Potash / Alkaline Noodle Salt)
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.
E501 (Potassium Carbonates / K2CO3) is an inorganic alkaline mineral salt. INS 501(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), used as the key 'Kansui' alkaline agent in Japanese ramen noodles and in the Dutch processing of cocoa powder.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E460 | E501 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 460(i) | INS 501(i) (Potassium Carbonate) |
|
Functional Class
|
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer | Acidity Regulator, Alkaline Leavening, Kansui Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) | K2CO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration | Alkalinizes noodle dough (pH 9–11), tightening glutenin network and converting flavonoid pigments yellow |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods | Ramen noodles (Kansui), Dutch-process alkalized cocoa powder, gingerbread leavening |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free | Vegan (Mineral salt), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1619) |
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