Ammonium carbonates
What is Ammonium carbonates?
Ammonium carbonates are a group of chemical compounds containing ammonium and carbonate ions. They are typically produced by reacting ammonia with carbon dioxide and water. In food, they are primarily used as a leavening agent.
Is Ammonium carbonates vegan?
Ammonium carbonates is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Ammonium carbonates gluten-free?
They do not contain gluten.
Is Ammonium carbonates a major allergen?
Ammonium carbonates are not one of the 14 major allergens that require specific emphasis on UK food labels.
What is Ammonium carbonates used for?
Ammonium carbonates act as a chemical leavening agent, producing carbon dioxide gas when heated, which causes baked goods to rise.
Is Ammonium carbonates safe?
Ammonium carbonates are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Ammonium carbonates act as a chemical leavening agent, producing carbon dioxide gas when heated, which causes baked goods to rise. This results in a lighter, crispier texture. They are commonly found in biscuits, crackers, and some types of cookies.
Health notes
Ammonium carbonates are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated ammonium carbonates. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical intake levels found in food, they are not associated with adverse health effects.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.9 Edible caseinates | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Ammonium carbonates are not one of the 14 major allergens that require specific emphasis on UK food labels. They do not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Ammonium carbonates
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