E211: Sodium Benzoate (Acid Beverage Preservative) vs. E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, highly soluble and active against yeasts and bacteria in acidic environments (pH < 4.5). INS 211, group ADI is 5 mg/kg bw/day, the standard antimicrobial in carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices.
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
|
E211 | E631 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 211 | INS 631 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative (Antibacterial, Antifungal) | Flavor Enhancer (Meat Purine Umami Synergist) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
5 mg / kg body weight per day (as benzoic acid equivalent) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C7H5NaO2 | C10H11N4Na2O8P · xH2O |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
In acidic media, converts to lipophilic undissociated benzoic acid which disrupts intracellular pH and anaerobic glycolysis in microbes | Allosteric conformational stabilizer of human T1R1/T1R3 G-protein umami receptor heterodimer |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Acidic soft drinks, sparkling waters, salad dressings, jams, pickles, soy sauce | Instant soups, meat seasonings, potato chips, canned meat gravies, cured snacks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Bacterial Corynebacterium fermentation standard), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.535) |