What is Sodium carbonate (E500)?

What does it do?

Balances pH, helps dough rise, or stops powdered products from clumping.

Is it harmful? Risk context

It is generally regarded as safe and has been used widely for many years; many are naturally sourced or substances the body already processes. Seeing it on a label does not mean "a bad product".

Containing an additive is not the same as being harmed by the product. A hazard is a substance’s theoretical potential to cause harm; risk depends on the actual amount you are exposed to. Rather than stamping additives with fear-based labels, NeBu explains them with sourced information — and leaves the decision to you.

Sources

• EFSA — Food additives
• Türk Gıda Kodeksi — Gıda Katkı Maddeleri Yönetmeliği (RG 13.10.2023)