E460: Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC / Dietary Bulking) vs. E950: Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K / 200x Sweetener)
Comparing 2 standards across 11 specifications. 11 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.
E950 (Acesulfame K / Ace-K) is a calorie-free, heat-stable synthetic potassium salt sweetener approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose. INS 950, ADI is 9 mg/kg bw/day, famous for blending with sucralose and aspartame to produce sugar-identical taste curves.
Specification Comparison Table
11 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E460 | E950 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 460(i) | INS 950 |
|
Functional Class
|
Bulking Agent, Anti-Caking Agent, Stabilizer, Fat Replacer | Non-Nutritive High-Intensity Sweetener |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 9 mg / kg body weight per day |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Crystalline cellulose micro-particles mimic creamy lipid mouthfeel without calories; prevents powder agglomeration | High-affinity agonist for T1R2 + T1R3 sweet taste receptor dimer |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Shredded cheeses (Prevents clumping), low-fat dressings, dietary supplement tablets, diet foods | Diet sodas (Coke Zero), sugar-free energy drinks, baked goods, sugar-free chewing gum |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant wood pulp), Halal, Kosher, Gluten-Free | 100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Diabetic Safe, Dental Safe (Non-cariogenic) |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1323) | EFSA Authorized / FDA Approved (21 CFR 172.800) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(C6H10O5)n (Insoluble linear beta-1,4-glucan polymer) | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 200x Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.0 kcal / g (Excreted unchanged by kidneys) kcal/g |