E270: Lactic Acid (Biological Acidulant) vs. E967: Xylitol (Birch Sugar / Dental Caries Inhibitor)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
E270 (L-Lactic Acid) is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus). INS 270, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), imparting a smooth, mild sour taste in dairy, beers, and bakery sourdoughs.
E967 (Xylitol) is a five-carbon polyol sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenation of xylose from birch wood or corn cobs. INS 967, ADI is Not Specified, offering 100% 1:1 sugar sweetness, a cooling endothermic mouthfeel, and active inhibition of Streptococcus mutans cavity bacteria.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E270 | E967 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 270 | INS 967 |
|
Functional Class
|
Acidity Regulator, Preservative, Flavoring Agent | Bulk Sweetener, Anti-Cariogenic Dental Agent, Humectant |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | Not Specified (Quantum Satis / Toxic to dogs warning) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Yogurt, sourdough breads, sour ales (Berliner Weisse), olives, confectionery, carcass rinses | Dental chewing gums (Orbit/Trident), sugar-free mints, toothpastes, diabetic baking |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
100% Vegan (Bacterial fermentation of beet/corn sugar), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Plant birch/corn source), Halal, Kosher, High Canine Toxicity Warning |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1061) | EFSA Authorized / FDA Approved (21 CFR 172.395) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C3H6O3 (2-hydroxypropanoic acid, pKa 3.86) | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Provides sustained buffering and mild tartness while suppressing spore-forming spoilage bacteria | — |
|
Relative Sweetness Index
|
— | 100% Sucrose (Exact 1:1 sweetness match) |
|
Caloric Value
|
— | 2.4 kcal / g (40% fewer calories than sugar) kcal/g |
|
Heat of Solution (Cooling)
|
— | -36.5 cal/g (Strong refreshing cooling mouth sensation) cal/g |