E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 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.
E631 (Disodium 5'-Inosinate / IMP) is the sodium salt of inosinic acid, a purine nucleotide naturally found in aged beef, katsuobushi bonito flakes, and cured meats. INS 631, ADI is Not Specified, multiplying glutamate umami flavor.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E460 | E631 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 460(i) | INS 631 |
|
Functional Class
|
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer | Flavor Enhancer (Meat Purine Umami Synergist) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) | C10H11N4Na2O8P · xH2O |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration | Allosteric conformational stabilizer of human T1R1/T1R3 G-protein umami receptor heterodimer |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods | Instant soups, meat seasonings, potato chips, canned meat gravies, cured snacks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free | Vegan (Bacterial Corynebacterium fermentation standard), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.535) |