E500(II) · Sodium Bicarbonate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E500(II)?
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a mineral compound (NaHCO3) found in natural deposits and also produced synthetically. In food, it acts as a leavening agent in baked goods, reacting with an acid such as cream of tartar, buttermilk, or vinegar to release carbon dioxide gas and make batters rise. It is also used as a mild antacid and pH regulator.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium bicarbonate, Baking soda, Sodium hydrogen carbonate, NaHCO3, E500, E 500, E-500, E500(ii), E 500(ii), E-500(ii), INS 500, INS 500(ii).
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- High doses (well beyond normal food use, e.g. as an antacid) can raise sodium intake and disturb the body's acid-base balance in sensitive individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Is E500(II) safe?
Our overall verdict for E500(II) (Sodium Bicarbonate) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E500(II) vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium Bicarbonate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E500(II) and why is it used?
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a mineral compound (NaHCO3) found in natural deposits and also produced synthetically. In food, it acts as a leavening agent in baked goods, reacting with an acid such as cream of tartar, buttermilk, or vinegar to release carbon dioxide gas and make batters rise. It is also used as a mild antacid and pH regulator.
Does E500(II) contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium Bicarbonate.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.