E503: Ammonium Bicarbonate (Baker's Ammonia / Hartshorn) vs. E967: Xylitol (Birch Sugar / Dental Caries Inhibitor)
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 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.
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
|
E503 | E967 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 503(ii) | INS 967 |
|
Functional Class
|
Raising Agent, Acidity Regulator | 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
|
Thin crispy crackers, Italian biscotti, Greek koulourakia, sugar wafer shells | Dental chewing gums (Orbit/Trident), sugar-free mints, toothpastes, diabetic baking |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral synthesis), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Plant birch/corn source), Halal, Kosher, High Canine Toxicity Warning |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1137) | EFSA Authorized / FDA Approved (21 CFR 172.395) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
(NH4)HCO3 | — |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Thermal decomposition leaves zero residual water or alkali salts: (NH4)HCO3 -> NH3(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(g) | — |
|
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 |