What is Sodium carbonate used for in food?

It is listed as an acidity regulator — 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 carbonate 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 carbonate vegan?

Yes. Sodium carbonate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sodium carbonate

Q: What is E 500?

E 500 is Sodium carbonate. Sodium carbonate, or soda ash, is an alkaline acidity regulator used in noodles, cocoa processing and as a processing aid. It is a main component of kansui, the alkaline salts that give ramen noodles their firm, springy texture.

E number E500INS 500(i)CAS 497-19-8

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

Listed as acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · antioxidants (US) · thickeners (Codex) · raising agents (Codex) · stabilisers (Codex) · anticaking agents (Codex) · emulsifying salts (Codex) · curing and pickling agents (US) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · starch-modifying agents (CA) · processing aids (US)

Canada: Acidity regulator — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10)
United States: pH control agent — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM CARBONATE
United States: pH control agents — 21 CFR 184.1742, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(23)
Codex Alimentarius: Acidity regulator — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
United States: Antioxidant — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM CARBONATE
United States: Antioxidants — 21 CFR 184.1742, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(3)
Codex Alimentarius: Thickener — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
Codex Alimentarius: Raising agent — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
Codex Alimentarius: Stabilizer — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
Codex Alimentarius: Anticaking agent — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
Codex Alimentarius: Emulsifying salt — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 500(i)
United States: Curing and pickling agents — 21 CFR 184.1742, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(5)
United States: Curing or pickling agent — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM CARBONATE
United States: Flavoring agent or adjuvant — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM CARBONATE
United States: Flavoring agents and adjuvants — 21 CFR 184.1742, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(12)
Canada: Starch-modifying agent — Health Canada, List of Permitted Starch-Modifying Agents (List 13)
United States: Processing aid — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM CARBONATE
United States: Processing aids — 21 CFR 184.1742, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(24)

Structure from PubChem CID 10340 (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 carbonate, or soda ash, is an alkaline acidity regulator used in noodles, cocoa processing and as a processing aid. It is a main component of kansui, the alkaline salts that give ramen noodles their firm, springy texture.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Sodium carbonate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
Jurisdiction	Status	Scope and limits	Citation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New Zealand	Permitted, 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 Canada	Permitted, with conditions	no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice) 10 permitted uses Show every permitted use In: Frozen clams; Frozen cooked shrimp; Frozen crab; Frozen fish fillets; Frozen lobster; Frozen minced fish; Frozen shrimp; Frozen squid. Purpose: To reduce processing losses and to reduce thaw drip. Limit: To be used in combination with sodium hexametaphosphate or sodium potassium hexametaphosphate, or both. In any case, the amount of sodium carbonate not to exceed 15% of the combination. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0048, NOM/ADM-0013. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.7 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.8(a) 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.8(b) 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 carbonate 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.8(c) 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.8(d) In: Gelatin. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.8(e) In: Meat binder sold for use in 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.8(f) In: Squid meat for processing. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.8(g) 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.8(h) 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.3	Health Canadaand 9 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSA	Permitted, with conditions	81 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. 1.6.3 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. 1.7.5 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 — phosphates — di-, tri- and polyphosphates (E 338-452)’. 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 80 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards Scotland	Permitted, with conditions	77 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. 1.6.3 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. 1.7.5 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 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 76 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs Agency	Permitted, with conditions	Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 252, 炭酸ナトリウム（結晶物の場合にあつては別名炭酸ソーダ、無水物の場合にあつては別名ソーダ灰） (“Sodium Carbonate (Crystal: Carbonate Soda, Anhydrous: Soda Ash)” in the unofficial English translation). … Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 252, 炭酸ナトリウム（結晶物の場合にあつては別名炭酸ソーダ、無水物の場合にあつては別名ソーダ灰） (“Sodium Carbonate (Crystal: Carbonate Soda, Anhydrous: Soda Ash)” 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 Safety	Permitted, 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), 탄산나트륨 (“Sodium Carbonate”, the English the Code prints beside it); the Code marks it as also usable as a nutrient fortifier; 3. 영양강화제 (nutrient fortifiers), 탄산나트륨; nutrient: 나트륨 (Na); the Code marks it as also usable as a general food additive. Main use (주용도) of 탄산나트륨: 산도조절제, 팽창제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 탄산나트륨: (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 Administration	Permitted		21 CFR 184.1742retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFA	Permitted, with conditions	20 food categories highest permitted level 10,000 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 04.2.2.7 Fermented vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera) and seaweed products, excluding fermented soybean products of food categories 06.8.6, 06.8.7, 12.9.1, — GMP Note XS294 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gochujang (CXS 294-2009). 06.2.2 Starches — GMP 06.4.1 Fresh pastas and noodles and like products — 10,000 mg/kg 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. 09.2.3 Frozen minced and creamed fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP Note 16 For use in glaze, coatings or decorations for fruit, vegetables, meat or fish only. 09.2.4 Cooked and/or fried fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP 09.2.5 Smoked, dried, fermented, and/or salted fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP Note XS167 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of Fishes (CODEX STAN 167-1989). Note XS189 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Shark Fins (CODEX STAN 189-1993). Note XS222 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Crackers from Marine and Freshwater Fish, Crustaceans and Molluscan Shellfish (CODEX STAN 222-2001). Note XS236 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Boiled Dried Salted Anchovies (CODEX STAN 236-2003). Note XS244 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring and Salted Sprat (CODEX STAN 244-2004). Note XS311 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Smoked Fish, Smoked-flavoured Fish and Smoke-dried Fish (CODEX STAN 311-2013). 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — GMP 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 243 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Processed Cereal-based Foods for Infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) only, as a raising agent. Note 295 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Canned Baby Foods (CODEX STAN 73-1981) only, as an acidity regulator. 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(i)and 20 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 Zealand	2,000 mg/kg	1 numeric limit, 58 GMP
Canada	—	9 GMP, 1 no quantity stated
European Union	70,000 mg/kg	1 numeric limit, 46 several limits, 12 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain	70,000 mg/kg	1 numeric limit, 76 quantum satis
Japan	—	1 no quantity stated
South Korea	—	1 no quantity stated
United States	—	1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius	2,000 mg/kg – 10,000 mg/kg	3 numeric limit, 18 GMP

What it is made from

Manufactured by the Solvay process or mined as trona and refined.

Vegan
Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number: 497-19-8
InChIKey: CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L
PubChem: CID 10340

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.

Parameter	European Union	JECFA
Assay	no less than 99 %	—
Loss on drying	no more than 2 %	—
Lead	no more than 2 mg/kg	no more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenic	no more than 3 mg/kg	—
Mercury	no 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(i) Sodium carbonate

Synonyms: Soda ash

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs: 207-838-8
Chemical name: Sodium carbonate
Chemical formula: Na₂CO₃ · nH₂O (n = 0, 1 or 10)
Molecular weight: 106,00 (anhydrous)
Assay: Content not less than 99 % of Na₂CO₃ on the anhydrous basis
Description: Colourless crystals or white, granular or crystalline powder The anhydrous form is hygroscopic, the decahydrate efflorescent

Identification

Test for sodium: Passes test
Test for carbonate: Passes test
Solubility: Freely soluble in water. Insoluble in ethanol

Purity criteria

Loss on drying: Not more than 2 % (anhydrous), 15 % (monohydrate) or 55 %-65 % (decahydrate) (70 °C raising gradually to 300 °C, to constant weight)
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(i)

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(i) Sodium Carbonate

Synonyms: Soda ash

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).
SYNONYMS DEFINITION Chemical names C.A.S. number Chemical formula: Soda ash; INS No.500(i) Sodium carbonate, sodium salt of carbonic acid 497-19-8 Anhydrous: Na2CO3 Hydrated: Na2CO3 · xH2O
Formula weight Assay DESCRIPTION: 106.00 (anhydrous) Not less than 99.0% after drying Colourless crystals or white, granular or crystalline powder; the anhydrous form is hygroscopic; hydrated forms available include the monohydrate and the decahydrate; the latter is efflorescent.
FUNCTIONAL USES Solubility (Vol. 4) Test for sodium (Vol. 4) Test for carbonate (Vol. 4) Loss on drying (Vol. 4): Alkali Freely soluble in water; insoluble in ethanol Passes test Passes test Anhydrous: Not more than 2% Monohydrate: Not more than 15% Decahydrate: 55 - 65% For all forms, heat the sample first at about 70 o , then gradually raise the temperature and finally dry at 250-300 o to constant weight.
METHOD OF ASSAY: Weigh accurately about 2 g of the dried sample. Dissolve carefully in 50 ml of 1 N sulfuric acid, add methyl orange TS and titrate the excess acid with 1 N sodium hydroxide. Each ml of 1 N sulfuric acid is equivalent to 53.0 mg of Na2CO3.

Purity criteria

Lead (Vol. 4): 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.

Part	May be used in	Maximum level	Citation
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additives	All 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 satis	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 3: Food additives including carriers in food enzymes	Food 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 satis	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 3
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavourings	All flavouringsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1"	quantum satis	Regulation (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 II	All nutrientsCan be used as a carrier: Yes	quantum satis	Regulation (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

INS number

500(i)

CAS registry number

497-19-8
7542-12-3

As it appears in regulation

Sodium carbonate
Sodium carbonates

Other names

Anhydrous sodium carbonate
Bestmade Natural Products Nat Carb
Bisodium carbonate
BUFFER STANDARD SOLUTION PH 10.01,BAG WI TH 30 ML
Calcined soda
carbonate sodium
Carbonic acid disodium salt
Carbonic acid sodium salt
Carbonic acid sodium salt (1:2)
Caswell N0 752
Caswell No. 752
CCRIS 7319
CNa2O3
Crystol carbonate
Disodium carbonate
Disodium carbonate (Na2CO3)
Disodium carbonate monohydrate
Dried sodium carbonate
Dynamar L 13890
Eluent 3: 0.5M Na2CO3
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 073506
Getrocknetes natriumkcarbonat
HSDB 5018
INS NO.500(I)
INS-500(I)
Light Ash
Natrii carbonas monohydricus
Natrium Carbonicum Calcinatum
Natrium carbonicum monohydricum
Natrium Carbonicum Siccatum
Natriumkarbonat
Natrum carbonicum
Sal soda
Snowlite I
Soda
Soda (van)
Soda Ash
Soda Ash Light 4P
Soda, calcined
Soda-ash
Sodium ash
sodium cabonate
Sodium carbonat
SODIUM CARBONATE
Sodium carbonate (2:1)
Sodium carbonate (Na2(CO3))
Sodium carbonate (NF)
sodium carbonate sodium
SODIUM CARBONATE, ACS
Sodium carbonate, anhydrous
Sodium Carbonate, Anhydrous ASTM D458
Sodium Carbonate, Anhydrous GE Materials D4D5
Sodium carbonates
Sodium salt of carbonic acid
sodium-carbonate
sodiumcarbonate
Solvay soda
Suprapur 6395
V Soda
Washing soda

Systematic names

disodium;carbonate

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
Type	Value	Population	Assessed by	Opinion
ADI	not limited	—	JECFA	1965

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 carbonate. Sodium carbonate, or soda ash, is an alkaline acidity regulator used in noodles, cocoa processing and as a processing aid. It is a main component of kansui, the alkaline salts that give ramen noodles their firm, springy texture.
What is Sodium carbonate used for in food?: It is listed as an acidity regulator — 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 carbonate 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 carbonate vegan?: Yes. Sodium carbonate 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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