# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Food Additives & E-Numbers

E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn) vs. E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn)
E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)

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.

View full E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn) spec sheet →

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.

View full E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist) spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
E-Number Code
E503 E631
INS / Codex Number
INS 503(ii) INS 631
Functional Class
Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator Flavor Enhancer (Meat Purine Umami Synergist)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Specified (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
(NH4)HCO3 C10H11N4Na2O8P · xH2O
Primary Mechanism
Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) Allosteric conformational stabilizer of human T1R1/T1R3 G-protein umami receptor heterodimer
Common Target Foods
Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells Instant soups, meat seasonings, potato chips, canned meat gravies, cured snacks
Dietary Compliance
Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher Vegan (Bacterial Corynebacterium fermentation standard), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.535)

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E968: Erythritol (Zero-Calorie Fermented Polyol) →