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

E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) vs. E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)

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

Comparing:
E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative)
E631: Disodium Inosinate (IMP Meat Umami Synergist)

E260 (Acetic Acid / Ethanoic acid) is a natural carboxylic acid produced via aerobic Acetobacter fermentation of ethanol. INS 260, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), giving vinegar its characteristic pungent sour flavor and pickling preservative action.

View full E260: Acetic Acid (Vinegar Acidulant / Preservative) 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
E260 E631
INS / Codex Number
INS 260 INS 631
Functional Class
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Tastant Flavor Enhancer (Meat Purine Umami Synergist)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) Not Specified (Quantum Satis)
Chemical Formula
CH3COOH (pKa 4.76) C10H11N4Na2O8P · xH2O
Primary Mechanism
Lowers pH below 4.2, destroying bacterial cell membrane proton motive force Allosteric conformational stabilizer of human T1R1/T1R3 G-protein umami receptor heterodimer
Common Target Foods
Table vinegars (4–8%), pickled cucumbers, mustard, mayonnaise, tomato ketchup Instant soups, meat seasonings, potato chips, canned meat gravies, cured snacks
Dietary Compliance
100% Vegan (Biological vinegar fermentation), Halal, Kosher Vegan (Bacterial Corynebacterium fermentation standard), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1005) EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 172.535)

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