Sodium carbonates
The sodium carbonates group — E500(ii) is ordinary baking soda.
- Category
- Stabilisers, Thickeners
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Sodium carbonates (E500) encompass a group of alkaline sodium salts, most famously sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). It acts as a raising agent, an acidity regulator, and an anti-caking agent.
How it is used in food
The gas source in most baking powder.
Commonly found in- Cakes, breads, and pancakes (as a raising agent)
- Effervescent drink powders
- Cocoa processing (Dutching process)
- Noodles (alkaline noodles)
Health and safety
None known.
Safe and widely used.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E500
Also printed asBaking soda · Bicarbonate of soda · Sodium bicarbonate
Alternatives to this additive
- E501: Potassium carbonates — Used when manufacturers want to reduce the sodium content of a product.
How it is made
It is manufactured via the Solvay process, which reacts sodium chloride (table salt), ammonia, and carbon dioxide in water to produce sodium bicarbonate.
- Solvay Process — Carbon dioxide gas is bubbled through a concentrated solution of sodium chloride (salt) and ammonia.
- Precipitation — Sodium bicarbonate precipitates out of the solution.
- Heating (for Carbonate) — To produce sodium carbonate (washing soda), the bicarbonate is heated to drive off water and carbon dioxide.
Worth knowing
It is what gives pretzels and ramen noodles their distinctive alkaline chew.
Conclusion
E500 is a household staple (baking soda) disguised by an E-number. It poses zero health risks beyond its contribution to daily sodium intake.
References
- EFSA evaluation of E330 — EFSA
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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