Ammonium Carbonate

Ammonium carbonate is a chemical compound that is a mixture of ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium carbamate. It is produced industrially by reacting carbon dioxide and ammonia. It is a white, crystalline solid.

Ammonium carbonate is used as a leavening agent in baking, particularly in traditional recipes for cookies and crackers. It produces carbon dioxide gas when heated, causing baked goods to rise and become lighter. It is often found in cookies, biscuits, and gingerbread.

In the US, ammonium carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used for its intended purpose. It is considered a source of ammonia, which is naturally present in the body. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated ammonium carbonate and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.