What is E503?
E503 is Ammonium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a raising agent to help make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas.
What is E503 (Ammonium Carbonates)?
E503 is the E-number for ammonium carbonates, one of the raising agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas. Mineral salts produced industrially. Like every E-number, E503 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E503 in detail below.
Where is E503 found?
E503 is typically used in cakes, biscuits, self-raising flour, bread and baking mixes. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E503) or by its full name, ammonium carbonates. Common foods that may contain E503 include:
- Cakes
- Biscuits
- Self-raising flour
- Bread and baking mixes
Full guide: foods containing E503 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E503 safe?
E503 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E503.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E503 vegan?
E503 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E503 →Is E503 halal?
E503 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E503 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E503 in food?
E503 is Ammonium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a raising agent to help make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas.
Is E503 safe to eat?
Yes. E503 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E503 vegan?
E503 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E503 halal?
E503 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).