Ammonium Carbonate (E503I): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Traditional raising agent ((NH₄)₂CO₃) used in biscuits and crackers. On heating it decomposes completely into carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water — all of which evaporate during baking, leaving no residue in the finished product. The ammonia smell is normal and entirely dissipates. Produces a very crisp, dry texture not achievable with modern bicarbonate leaveners, which is why it is still preferred for certain traditional biscuits. Safe — no chemical residue remains in the cooked food.
- Category
- Raising Agent
- Typically used in
- Traditional biscuits, crackers, shortbread, lebkuchen, some Scandinavian pastries
- Regulatory status
- Approved EU/USA/UK. No residue in cooked product.
- Also listed as
- Baker's Ammonia
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Products containing Ammonium Carbonate
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