Ingredient · E500

Acidity Regulator: Sodium Bicarbonate

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium bicarbonate acts as a leavening agent in baked goods, producing carbon dioxide gas …

What it is

Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a white crystalline powder. It is a salt of carbonic acid, naturally occurring in mineral deposits and also produced synthetically. It is commonly used in baking and as a cleaning agent.

Why it's used

Sodium bicarbonate acts as a leavening agent in baked goods, producing carbon dioxide gas when combined with an acid and moisture, which causes doughs and batters to rise. It is also used as an acidity regulator to control pH levels in various food products. It can be found in cookies, crackers, popcorn, and snack mixes.

Health notes

Sodium bicarbonate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a common ingredient in antacids. JECFA has evaluated sodium bicarbonate and established an acceptable daily intake. While generally safe, excessive intake can lead to electrolyte imbalances and other health issues.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It does not contain gluten.

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.