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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Alkalizing cocoa powder darkens its color and mellows its bitter flavor, making it ideal …
What it is
Partially processed with alkali, also known as 'alkalized', is a processing method used on cocoa powder and other ingredients. It involves treating the ingredient with an alkaline substance, such as potassium carbonate, to neutralize its natural acidity. This process changes the ingredient's color, flavor, and solubility.
Why it's used
Alkalizing cocoa powder darkens its color and mellows its bitter flavor, making it ideal for baked goods like cakes, cookies, and brownies. It also improves its ability to dissolve in liquids, which is useful in products like chocolate-flavored beverages and ice cream.
Health notes
In the US, ingredients processed with alkali are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. The process does not add significant health risks at typical consumption levels. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated similar food processing aids, but no specific health concerns are widely reported for this method at normal intake.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen. However, if the ingredient is derived from wheat or soy, it may contain gluten or be a soy allergen, respectively.
Products containing Partially Processed With Alkali
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.