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Ammonium Carbonates (E503)

Also known as: ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, baker's ammonia, hartshorn, E503

Safe

Authorised as a food additive (E503) by EFSA and recognized as GRAS in the US. The ammonia released during baking evaporates; it must not be used in high-moisture products where residual ammonia would persist.

E-number

EE503

Type

raising agent

What it is

Ammonium carbonate and ammonium bicarbonate, inorganic salts that release CO2 and ammonia when heated.

Chemical leavening agent in flat baked goods where moisture is low enough for the ammonia to fully evaporate.

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

GRAS (21 CFR 184.1135 / 184.1137)

European Union — EFSA

Authorised food additive (E503)

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