Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking)
E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
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.
E503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate / (NH4)HCO3) is a historic chemical leavening salt. INS 503(ii), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), decomposing 100% into gaseous CO2, ammonia, and water at temperatures >60°C to create ultra-crisp, airy crackers and cookies.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E460 | E503 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 460(i) | INS 503(ii) |
|
Functional Class
|
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer | Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) | (NH4)HCO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration | Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods | Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free | Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) |
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