E160c: Paprika Extract (Capsanthin / Capsorubin) vs. E960: Steviol Glycosides (Reb-A / Stevia Extract)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
E160c (Paprika Extract / Oleoresin) is a natural lipid-soluble red-orange colorant extracted from dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum). INS 160c, ADI is 24 mg/kg bw/day, delivering rich reddish coloration to processed meats, seasonings, and dressings without spiciness.
E960 (Steviol Glycosides / Rebaudioside A) is a natural zero-calorie sweetener water-extracted from the leaves of the Stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana). INS 960a, ADI is 4 mg/kg bw/day (as steviol equivalents), providing 250–350x sucrose sweetness.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160c | E960 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160c | INS 960a / 960c |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Red-Orange) | Natural High-Intensity Sweetener |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
24 mg / kg body weight per day | 4 mg / kg body weight per day (as steviol equivalents) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chorizo, hot dog casings, marinades, snack seasonings, cheese dips | Natural zero-calorie sodas (Zevia), flavored yogurts, protein shakes, tabletop drops |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Red pepper solvent extract), Halal, Kosher | 100% Vegan (Stevia leaf water extraction), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.345 | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS Notices (GRN 252) |
|
Key Chromophores
|
Capsanthin (C40H56O3) and Capsorubin (C40H56O4) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Keto-carotenoid chromophores imparting heat-stable red color (capsaicin heat is removed) | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 250 – 350x Sucrose (Reb-A >98%) |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 0.0 kcal / g kcal/g |
|
Glycemic Index (GI)
|
— | 0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin) |