Sodium Carbonate
Also known as: E500i, washing soda, E500
Sodium carbonate is FDA GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1742 with use limited to good manufacturing practice. EFSA's group ADI for sodium carbonate (E 500) was not numerically specified ('not specified') by JECFA, indicating a wide margin of safety at typical food-use levels.
What it is
Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), also called soda ash or washing soda. White, water-soluble inorganic salt.
PH control agent (alkalizer), leavening agent, processing aid, anti-caking agent.
Why it's flagged
- contributes to dietary sodium load
What regulators actually say
"Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3, CAS Reg. No. 497-19-8)... The ingredient is used in food as an antioxidant... pH control agent... processing aid... at levels not to exceed current good manufacturing practice."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1742.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted (E 500); ADI 'not specified' by JECFA.
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