E140: Chlorophyll & Chlorophyllins (Green Color) vs. E501: Potassium Carbonate (Potash / Alkaline Noodle Salt)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
E140 (Chlorophyll) is the natural magnesium-porphyrin green pigment extracted from grass, alfalfa, and nettles. INS 140(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), utilized to restore vibrant botanical green color to confectionery, oils, and pasta.
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
|
E140 | E501 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 140(i) | INS 501(i) (Potassium Carbonate) |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Green) | Acidity Regulator, Alkaline Leavening, Kansui Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C55H72MgN4O5 (Chlorophyll a) | K2CO3 |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Light absorption in red (660nm) and blue (430nm) spectra, reflecting vibrant botanical green | Alkalinizes noodle dough (pH 9–11), tightening glutenin network and converting flavonoid pigments yellow |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Pesto, spinach pasta, mint confectionery, olive oil blends, liqueurs | Ramen noodles (Kansui), Dutch-process alkalized cocoa powder, gingerbread leavening |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Plant solvent extraction), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral salt), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.125 | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1619) |