Sodium Carbonates E500
raising agent, alkalizing agent, anti-caking agent — Primarily synthetic.
Sodium carbonate (E500i), Sodium hydrogen carbonate/bicarbonate (E500ii), Sodium sesquicarbonate (E500iii)
CAS: 497-19-8 (i), 144-55-8 (ii), 533-96-0 (iii)
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
? Did You Know?
Sodium Carbonates occurs naturally in Trona ore deposits (natural mineral) and Natron (naturally occurring sodium carbonate decahydrate). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Sodium Carbonates is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Sodium Carbonates has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Permitted in most food categories at levels necessary to achieve the intended technical effect.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Sodium bicarbonate is one of the most widely used leavening agents in baking.
Japan (MHLW)
Widely used in Japanese confectionery and noodle production.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
Sodium carbonate occurs naturally in the mineral trona and in certain alkaline lake deposits. However, most commercial sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate are synthetically manufactured through the Solvay process or extracted from trona ore.
Manufacturing
E500i (sodium carbonate) is primarily produced via the Solvay process (reacting sodium chloride with ammonia and carbon dioxide) or by mining and processing natural trona ore. E500ii (sodium bicarbonate/baking soda) is made by passing CO2 through a solution of sodium carbonate, or directly from trona. E500iii (sesquicarbonate) is a mixed crystal of sodium carbonate and bicarbonate, also derived from trona processing.
Applications Beyond Food
pH adjuster in soaps, bath products, and personal care items.
Antacid (sodium bicarbonate), pH buffer in medications.
Glass manufacturing, water softening, detergents, pulp and paper production.
Baking soda for cleaning, deodorizing, and home remedies; washing soda for laundry.