Sodium hydroxide
What is Sodium hydroxide?
Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda, is a strong alkali. It is manufactured industrially through the electrolysis of sodium chloride (salt) solution. It is highly corrosive in its pure form.
Is Sodium hydroxide vegan?
Sodium hydroxide is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Sodium hydroxide gluten-free?
It is a chemical compound and does not contain gluten.
Is Sodium hydroxide a major allergen?
Sodium hydroxide is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Sodium hydroxide used for?
In food production, sodium hydroxide is used as an acidity regulator, particularly in the processing of pretzels and crackers to give them their characteristic crispness and brown colour.
Is Sodium hydroxide safe?
Sodium hydroxide is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
In food production, sodium hydroxide is used as an acidity regulator, particularly in the processing of pretzels and crackers to give them their characteristic crispness and brown colour. It is also used in the production of cocoa and chocolate products, and as a peeling agent for fruits and vegetables.
Health notes
Sodium hydroxide is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is used in very small quantities in food processing, and any residual amounts are neutralised during the cooking process. EFSA has evaluated sodium hydroxide and it has been assigned an E number. JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. There are no notable controversies regarding its use at permitted levels in food.
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 |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads | 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 |
| 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Sodium hydroxide is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is a chemical compound and does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Sodium hydroxide
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