Sodium bicarbonate

E number E500INS 500(ii)CAS 144-55-8

Listed as an acidity regulator and a raising agent by Canada, Codex and the US.

Listed as acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · raising agents (CA, US, Codex) · emulsifiers (US) · thickeners (Codex) · flavour enhancers (US) · stabilisers (Codex) · anticaking agents (Codex) · propellants and aerating agents (CA) · nutrient supplements (US) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · starch-modifying agents (CA) · solvents and vehicles (US) · processing aids (US)
Chemical structure of Sodium bicarbonate, from PubChem compound 516892
Structure from PubChem CID 516892 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Sodium bicarbonate is baking soda: a raising agent that releases carbon dioxide when it meets an acid or heat. It is also an acidity regulator in drinks and confectionery.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Sodium bicarbonate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

59 food categories

highest permitted level 2,000 mg/L

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMP
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPOnly UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMP
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMP
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMP
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPOnly UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMP
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMP
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMP
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMP
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMP
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMP
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMP
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMP
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMP
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMP
  • 13.1 Infant formula products — 2,000 mg/LApplies in Australia; New Zealand has not adopted Standard 2.9.1 (infant formula products) and applies its own infant formula standard.
  • 13.2 Foods for infants — GMP
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMP
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMP
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMP
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMP
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPFor juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMP
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMP
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMP
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMP
  • 14.2.2 Wine, sparkling wine and fortified wine — GMP
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMP
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine, vegetable wine and mead (including cider and perry) — GMP
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMP
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMP
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMP
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMP
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMP
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMP
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMP
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMP
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMP
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMP
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMP
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMP
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMP
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMP
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMP
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMP
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMP
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMP
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMP
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMP
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMP
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMP
  • 9.1.2 Uncooked crustacea — GMP
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMP
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 58 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

12 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Salt. Purpose: To stabilize potassium iodide added to salt for table or general household use. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.6(a)
  • In: Unstandardized confectionery. Purpose: Aerating agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.6(b)
  • In: Apple and (naming the fruit or fruits) jam; Dried egg-white; Dried whole egg; Dried yolk; Fig marmalade; Fig marmalade with pectin; Frozen egg-white; Frozen whole egg; Frozen yolk; Ice cream mix; Ice milk mix; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jam; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jam with pectin; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jelly; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jelly with pectin; Liquid egg-white; Liquid whole egg; Liquid yolk; (Naming the citrus fruit or fruits) marmalade; (Naming the citrus fruit or fruits) marmalade with pectin; Pineapple marmalade; Pineapple marmalade with pectin; Rhubarb and (naming the fruit or fruits) jam. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(a)
  • In: Baking powder. Purpose: Acid-reacting material. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(b)
  • In: Calorie-reduced margarine; Margarine. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(c)
  • In: Cocoa products as defined in Volume 4 of the Food Compositional Standards Document. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. If used singly, the amount of sodium bicarbonate in neutralizing value, calculated from its weight, not to exceed the neutralizing value of 5% anhydrous potassium carbonate by weight of the cocoa product, calculated on a fat-free basis. If used in any combination with other acidity regulators, the total combined amount of these acidity regulators in neutralizing value, calculated from their respective weight, not to exceed the neutralizing value of 5% anhydrous potassium carbonate by weight of the cocoa product, calculated on a fat-free basis. This total combined amount does not include any of citric acid, phosphoric acid or tartaric acid that may be added up to their respective maximum levels of use set out in this list. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(d)
  • In: Cold-pack (naming the variety) cheese; Cold-pack cheese food; Cold-pack cheese food with (naming the added ingredients); Cold-pack (naming the variety) cheese with (naming the added ingredients); Cream cheese spread; Cream cheese spread with (naming the added ingredients); Processed (naming the variety) cheese; Processed cheese food; Processed cheese food with (naming the added ingredients); Processed cheese spread; Processed cheese spread with (naming the added ingredients); Processed (naming the variety) cheese with (naming the added ingredients); (Naming the variety) whey cheese. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(e)
  • In: Infant formula. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(f)
  • In: Malted milk powder; Pumping pickle, cover pickle and dry cure used in the curing of preserved meat or preserved meat by-product. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(g)
  • In: Oil-soluble annatto. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(h)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.6(i)
  • In: Starch used in the manufacture of modified starch. Purpose: Starch-modifying agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Starch-Modifying Agents (List 13), item S.2
Health Canadaand 11 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

83 food categories

highest permitted level 70,000 mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.5 dehydrated milk as defined by directive 2001/114/ec — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Authorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.2 ripened cheese — quantum satisquantum satis. only sour milk cheese.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 11.4.1 table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.1 Salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.1.5 Foods for special medical purposes, as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wineAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Authorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Authorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Authorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.2.1 Butter and concentrated butter and butter oil and anhydrous milk fat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only soured cream butter.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 70,000 mg/kgAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Carbonates. ML = 70000 mg/kg. E 170, E 500 - 504, E 524 - 528 and E 530: 7 % on dry matter, without fat, expressed as potassium carbonates.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only poultry meat preparations, mici, bifteki, soutzoukaki, kebap, seftalia, ćevapčići and pljeskavice.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.1.2 Unprocessed molluscs and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only frozen and deep-frozen cephalopods. Note 95: may not be used in combination with Phosphoric acid &mdash; phosphates &mdash; di-, tri- and polyphosphates (E 338-452)&rsquo;.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roeAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 82 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

79 food categories

highest permitted level 70,000 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.5 Dehydrated milk as defined by Directive 2001/114/EC — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.2 Ripened cheese — quantum satisquantum satis. only sour milk cheese.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.1 Table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 Table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 Table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.1 Salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children as defined by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.1.4 Other foods for young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 13.1.5.1 Dietary foods for infants for special medical purposes and special formulae for infants — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.2.1 Butter and concentrated butter and butter oil and anhydrous milkfat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only soured cream butter.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 70,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 500-504, Carbonates. ML = 70000. Note (*): E 170, E 500-504, E 524-528 and E 530: 7 % on dry matter, without fat, expressed as potassium carbonates (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. quantum satis. only poultry meat preparations, mici, bifteki, soutzoukaki, kebap, seftalia, ćevapčići and pljeskavice.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 500, Sodium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 78 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 251, 炭酸水素ナトリウム（別名重炭酸ナトリウム又は重炭酸ソーダ） (“Sodium Bicarbonate (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate or Bicarbonate Soda)” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 251, 炭酸水素ナトリウム（別名重炭酸ナトリウム又は重炭酸ソーダ） (“Sodium Bicarbonate (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate or Bicarbonate Soda)” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 탄산수소나트륨 (“Sodium Bicarbonate”, the English the Code prints beside it); the Code marks it as also usable as a nutrient fortifier; 3. 영양강화제 (nutrient fortifiers), 탄산수소나트륨; nutrient: 나트륨 (Na); the Code marks it as also usable as a general food additive. Main use (주용도) of 탄산수소나트륨: 산도조절제, 팽창제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 탄산수소나트륨: (1) [to be used under the general standard for use in II. 2. 1), the minimum amount that achieves the technical effect, with no limit set for this additive in particular] “II. 2. 1)의 규정에 따라 사용하여야 한다.” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted21 CFR 184.1736retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

14 food categories

highest permitted level 2,000 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.2.1.2 Fermented milks (plain), heat-treated after fermentation — GMP
    • Note 631 Except for use in plain fermented milks and drinks based on fermented milks that are heat treated after fermentation conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) as an acidity regulator.
  • 01.4.1 Pasteurized cream (plain) — GMP
    • Note 12 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Cream and Prepared Creams (CXS 288-1976) as an acidity regulator.
  • 01.4.2 Sterilized and UHT creams, whipping and whipped creams, and reduced fat creams (plain) — GMP
  • 01.8.2 Dried whey and whey products, excluding whey cheeses — GMP
    • Note XS331 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dairy Permeate Powders (CXS 331-2017).
  • 02.2.1 Butter — GMP
  • 06.4.1 Fresh pastas and noodles and like products — GMP
  • 06.4.2 Dried pastas and noodles and like products — GMP
    • Note 256 For use in noodles, gluten-free pasta and pasta intended for hypoproteic diets only.
  • 09.2.2 Frozen battered fish, fish fillets and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
    • Note 41 For use in breading or batter coatings only.
  • 12.2.1 Herbs and spices — GMP
    • Note 534 For herbs use is limited to herbs that have been ground or processed into powder only, as an anticaking agent.
    • Note XS326 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Black, White and Green Peppers (CODEX STAN 326-2017).
    • Note XS351 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Floral Parts - Saffron (CXS 351-2022).
  • 13.1.1 Infant formulae — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 55 Within the limits for sodium, calcium, and potassium specified in the Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants (CXS 72-1981): singly or in combination with other sodium, calcium, and/or potassium salts.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.2 Follow-up formulae — GMP
    • Note 316 For use in follow-up formula for older infants: within the limit for sodium specified in the standard for Follow-up Formula for older infants and product for young children (CXS 156-1987); singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.3 Formulae for special medical purposes for infants — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 55 Within the limits for sodium, calcium, and potassium specified in the Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants (CXS 72-1981): singly or in combination with other sodium, calcium, and/or potassium salts.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.2 Complementary foods for infants and young children — GMP
    • Note 319 Within the limit for sodium listed in the Codex Standard for Canned Baby Food (CODEX STAN 73-1981) for foods corresponding to that standard : singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
    • Note 320 Within the limit for sodium listed in the Codex Standard for Processed Cereal-based Foods for Infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) for foods corresponding to that standard : singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions, and other hot cereal and grain beverages, excluding cocoa — GMP
    • Note 160 For use in ready-to-drink products and pre-mixes for ready-to-drink products only.
CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 500(ii)and 14 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand2,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 58 GMP
Canada—12 GMP
European Union70,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 46 several limits, 14 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain70,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 78 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius2,000 mg/kg2 numeric limit, 13 GMP

What it is made from

Manufactured by the Solvay process from salt, limestone and ammonia, or mined as the mineral nahcolite and refined.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
144-55-8
InChIKey
UIIMBOGNXHQVGW-UHFFFAOYSA-M
PubChem
CID 516892

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 99 %—
Loss on dryingno more than 0.25 %—
Leadno more than 2 mg/kg—
Arsenicno more than 3 mg/kg—
Mercuryno more than 1 mg/kg—

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 500(ii) Sodium hydrogen carbonate

Synonyms: Sodium bicarbonate; sodium acid carbonate; Bicarbonate of soda; Baking soda

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
205-633-8
Chemical name
Sodium hydrogen carbonate
Chemical formula
NaHCO₃
Molecular weight
84,01
Assay
Content not less than 99 % on the anhydrous basis
Description
Colourless or white crystalline masses or crystalline powder

Identification

Test for sodium
Passes test
Test for carbonate
Passes test
pH
Between 8,0 and 8,6 (1 % solution)
Solubility
Soluble in water. Insoluble in ethanol

Purity criteria

Loss on drying
Not more than 0,25 % (over silica gel, 4 hours)
Ammonium salts
No odour of ammonia detectable after heating
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 500(ii)

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 500(ii) Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate

Synonyms: Baking soda, bicarbonate of soda, sodium bicarbonate; INS No. 500(ii) Baking soda; Bicarbonate of soda; Sodium bicarbonate

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 19th JECFA (1975), published in NMRS 55B (1976) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 59th JECFA (2002). An ADI ‘not limited’ was established at the 9th JECFA (1965).
DEFINITION Chemical names C.A.S. number Chemical formula
Sodium hydrogen carbonate, sodium acid carbonate 144-55-8 NaHCO3
Formula weight Assay
84.01 Not less than 99.0% after drying
DESCRIPTION
Colourless, white, crystalline masses or crystalline powder
FUNCTIONAL USES Solubility (Vol. 4) pH (Vol. 4) Test for sodium (Vol. 4) Test for carbonate (Vol. 4)
Alkali, leavening agent, buffer Soluble in water; insoluble in ethanol 8.0 - 8.6 (1 in 100 soln of the sample in cold water without shaking) Passes test Passes test
METHOD OF ASSAY
Weigh accurately about 3 g of the dried sample, add methyl orange TS and titrate with 1 N sulfuric acid. Each ml of 1 N sulfuric acid is equivalent to 84.01 mg of NaHCO3.

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4) Water insoluble substances
Not more than 0.25% (over silica gel, 4 h) 1 g of the sample dissolves completely in 20 ml of water and gives a clear solution
Ammonium salts Lead (Vol. 4)
Heat 1 g of the sample in a test tube. No odour of ammonia is detected. Not more than 2 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Authorised in other additives, enzymes, flavourings and nutrients

These authorisations are not for use in food. They let this substance be used inside another additive, a food enzyme, a flavouring or a nutrient preparation — often as a carrier — and it reaches food only as part of that product. Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.

PartMay be used inMaximum levelCitation
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additivesAll food additive preparationsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1" Note (1): Except enzymes authorised as food additives.quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 3: Food additives including carriers in food enzymesFood enzymesCan be used as a carrier: Yes Note (1): Including enzymes authorised as food additives.In enzyme preparation: quantum satis In final food except beverages: quantum satis In beverages: quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 3
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavouringsAll flavouringsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1"quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 4, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 5, Section A: Food additives added in nutrients except in nutrients intended to be used in foodstuffs listed in Part E, point 01.10, of Annex II and foodstuffs for infants and young children listed in Part E, point 13.1, of Annex IIAll nutrientsCan be used as a carrier: Yesquantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 5, Section A

Every name it appears under

87 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E500
  • E500(ii)

INS number

  • 500(ii)

CAS registry number

  • 144-55-8

As it appears in regulation

  • Sodium bicarbonate
  • Sodium carbonates
  • Sodium hydrogenate carbonate

Other names

  • 8MDF5V39QO
  • After Bite Advanced
  • After Bite Kids
  • After Bite X Tech
  • AHHH Bite Relief
  • Assured Bug Bite Relief
  • Baking soda
  • Bicarbonate of soda
  • Bicarbonate, Sodium
  • Carbonic acid monosodium salt
  • Carbonic acid sodium salt (1:1)
  • Col-evac
  • De LA Cruz Desempacho
  • E 500(ii)
  • General Surgery Kit
  • Genitron tp-bch 51051
  • Humco Sodium Bicarbonate
  • Hydrocerol esc 5671
  • Hydrogen Carbonate, Sodium
  • INS NO.500(II)
  • INS-500(II)
  • Insect sting relief latex
  • Insect Sting Relief Pad
  • Jusonin
  • LIFE Q
  • Medis Sodium Bicarbonate
  • Meylon
  • Monosodium carbonate
  • Monosodium hydrogen carbonate
  • MultiBic component sodium hydrogen carbonate
  • Nabic
  • NaHCO3
  • Natrii hydrogencarbonas
  • Natrii hydrogenocarbonas
  • Natrium bicarbonicum
  • Natrium hydrogencarbonicum
  • Natriumhydrogenkarbonat
  • Natrum bicarbonicum
  • Neut
  • Nurse harveys
  • Rapidol Sodium Bicarbonate
  • S-bicarb
  • S-bicarb sf
  • Sel De vichy
  • Soda Mint
  • Soda, Baking
  • Sodibic
  • sodium acid carbonate
  • Sodium bicarbonate
  • Sodium Bicarbonate 10 gr
  • Sodium Bicarbonate 5 gr
  • Sodium bicarbonate anhydrous
  • Sodium Bicarbonate Antacid
  • Sodium bicarbonate in plastic container
  • Sodium carbonate (Na(HCO3))
  • Sodium hydrogen carbonate
  • Sodium hydrogencarbonate
  • Soludal
  • Thamicarb

Systematic names

  • Sodium;hydrogen carbonate

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADInot limited—JECFA1965

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 500?
E 500 is Sodium bicarbonate. Sodium bicarbonate is baking soda: a raising agent that releases carbon dioxide when it meets an acid or heat. It is also an acidity regulator in drinks and confectionery.
What is Sodium bicarbonate used for in food?
It is listed as an acidity regulator and a raising agent — the role Canada, Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Sodium bicarbonate permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Sodium bicarbonate vegan?
Yes. Sodium bicarbonate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

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