Food Additives Encyclopedia

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ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nameammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate
English nameammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate
INS/E numberINS 503
Functional classMineral salt
Year adopted1969
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Ammonium carbonate and ammonium bicarbonate (baking ammonia) are inorganic ammonium salts that decompose on heating into ammonia, carbon dioxide and water, leaving no residue. They are raising agents used in crisp bakery products.

Source ​

Industrial：由氨、二氧化碳和水反应碳化制得碳酸铵/碳酸氢铵

Why is it used? ​

  • Acts as a raising agent producing gas for crispness
  • Fully volatilises on heating with no residue
  • Creates a porous structure in traditional bakery
  • Low cost with high leavening efficiency

Common Foods ​

  • Biscuits and cookies
  • Traditional pastries
  • Fried dough and extruded snacks
  • Instant cocoa
  • Some confectionery

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

  • 过量会产生氨味
  • 密闭包装不宜使用以免残留氨味

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 503)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1005 (ammonium bicarbonate, GRASS)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1007 (ammonium carbonate, GRASS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 503)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (503)

In a nutshell ​

Ammonium carbonate and bicarbonate are volatilising raising agents used in crisp bakery with no residue left behind.

Consumer Advice ​

Ammonium carbonate and ammonium bicarbonate are ammonia-based raising agents that break down rapidly with heat, releasing gas. They are used in biscuits, crackers and certain pastries to make them light and crisp, with virtually no ammonia taste left behind as most of the ammonia evaporates during baking. JECFA considers them safe within limits, and residual levels in finished products are very low.

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.