sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate (E500ii)
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate (E500ii) |
| English name | sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate (E500ii) |
| INS/E number | INS 500 |
| Functional class | Mineral salt |
| Year adopted | 1965 |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate (E 500ii is sodium bicarbonate, baking soda) are inorganic alkaline salts used as acidity regulators and raising agents. On heating or in acid conditions sodium bicarbonate releases carbon dioxide, leavening dough and baked products.
Source
Industrial：由氯化钠、氨和二氧化碳经索尔维法制得碳酸钠，再经碳化得到碳酸氢钠
Why is it used?
- Acts as a raising agent to leaven baked goods
- Regulates acidity and adjusts food pH
- Improves colour and texture of noodles and steamed buns
- Used as a processing aid for peeling and colour retention
Common Foods
- Bread and biscuits
- Steamed buns and noodles
- Cakes and pastries
- Cocoa products
- Processed vegetables
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Concerns：
- 过量使用可能影响食品风味和钠摄入
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 1886.1 / GB 1886.2 食品添加剂 碳酸钠/碳酸氢钠
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 500)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1736 (sodium bicarbonate, GRASS)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1742 (sodium carbonate, GRASS)
- Codex GSFA (INS 500)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (500)
In a nutshell
Sodium carbonate and bicarbonate are basic inorganic raising agents and acidity regulators widely used to leaven and adjust pH in foods.
Consumer Advice
Sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) are common, familiar salts. Bicarbonate is a raising agent that reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide and make biscuits, cakes and steamed buns rise; carbonate is used as an acidity regulator in noodles, beverages and dairy. Both are normal products of body chemistry and are considered safe without an ADI limit, though bicarbonate adds sodium, so people watching salt intake should take note.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.