Sodium Bicarbonate

CAS Number:

144-55-8

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

Sodium hydrogen carbonate

INCI Name:

Sodium Bicarbonate

EC Number:

205-633-8 (commonly associated, though not in search results)

Molecular Formula:

NaHCO3

Molecular Weight:

84.01 g/mol

Other Names:

Baking soda, Bicarbonate of soda, Sodium hydrogen carbonate, E500(ii)

Uses:

Food Grade Sodium Bicarbonate is a high-purity, white crystalline powder with a slightly salty, alkaline taste . It meets strict food safety standards (e.g., FCC, EU, FSSAI) and is one of the most versatile and widely used food additives (E500ii) .

· Food & Beverage Industry: Its primary function is as a leavening agent in baked goods. When combined with an acid (like buttermilk, vinegar, or cream of tartar) and moisture, it releases carbon dioxide gas, causing doughs and batters to rise, resulting in light, fluffy textures in cakes, breads, cookies, and pancakes .

· Beverage Production: Acts as a buffering agent and source of carbonation in effervescent powders, tablets, and carbonated drinks, where it reacts with an acid (e.g., citric acid) to produce CO? .

· Food Processing: Used as a pH regulator and neutralizer in various processes, such as adjusting the acidity of jaggery, tenderizing meat, and aiding in moisture retention .

· Personal Care & Cosmetics: Functions as an abrasive and pH adjuster in toothpastes, a deodorizing agent in natural deodorants, and a gentle exfoliant in scrubs and bath products .

· Pharmaceuticals: A key ingredient in antacids for heartburn relief and used in oral rehydration salts .

Origin

Sodium Bicarbonate is an inorganic salt of mineral origin . It is produced commercially through a chemical reaction process. Large-scale manufacturing often involves a continuous process using natural ingredients like salt (sodium chloride) and limestone (calcium carbonate) as raw materials . The result is a highly purified, food-grade product.

What does Sodium Bicarbonate (Food Grade) do in a formulation?

• Leavening Agent: Produces carbon dioxide gas in baked goods to create a light texture .
• pH Adjuster / Buffer: Helps maintain a stable pH (typically slightly alkaline) in solutions, resisting changes in acidity . A 1% solution has a pH of 8.0 – 8.6 .
• Abrasive: Provides gentle cleansing and polishing action in oral care and exfoliating products .
• Deodorizing Agent: Neutralizes acidic odors, effectively eliminating smells rather than just masking them
• Antacid: Neutralizes excess stomach acid by reacting with it to form salt, water, and carbon dioxide .
• Effervescent Agent: Reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas for rapid dissolution of tablets and powders .

Safety Profile:

· GRAS Status: Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. FDA and approved as a food additive (E500ii) in the EU and worldwide when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices .

· Concentration Limits: Usage levels vary by application but are self-limiting in foods due to its effect on taste. It is safe for its intended uses and is considered a non-toxic, natural substance .

· Irritation & Sensitization: In its dry powder form, it may cause mild eye or skin irritation upon direct contact. Inhalation of dust may irritate the respiratory tract . In finished products at intended levels, it is generally well-tolerated.

· Handling & Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat (above 50°C), and acidic substances to prevent premature decomposition or clumping . It is non-flammable and non-hazardous for transport .

· Shelf Life: Typically 2 years when stored properly in sealed containers . Some sources indicate a shelf life of 12-24 months .

· Regulatory Compliance: Meets major food standards including FCC (Food Chemical Codex) , EU food safety standards , FSSAI , and is available with Kosher and Halal certifications .

Technical profile: