E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn) vs. E950: Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K / 200x Sweetener)
Comparing 2 standards across 11 specifications. 11 key differences identified.
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.
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
|
E503 | E950 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 503(ii) | INS 950 |
|
Functional Class
|
Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator | Non-Nutritive High-Intensity Sweetener |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 9 mg / kg body weight per day |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) | High-affinity agonist for T1R2 + T1R3 sweet taste receptor dimer |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells | Diet sodas (Coke Zero), sugar-free energy drinks, baked goods, sugar-free chewing gum |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Diabetic Safe, Dental Safe (Non-cariogenic) |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) | EFSA Authorized / FDA Approved (21 CFR 172.800) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(NH4)HCO3 | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 200x Sucrose |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.0 kcal / g (Excreted unchanged by kidneys) kcal/g |