Ammonium Bicarbonate, designated as E503, is a white, crystalline powder widely used as a leavening agent in baking and food production.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate releases carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water when heated, making it effective in low-moisture baked goods without leaving residual flavor.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is also utilized in pharmaceutical and industrial applications for its decomposing properties.
CAS Number: 1066-33-7
EC Number: 213-911-5
Molecular Formula: NH4HCO3
Molecular Weight: 79.06 g/mol
Synonyms: Ammonium Bicarbonate, E503, Baking Ammonia, Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate, Hartshorn, Powdered Baking Ammonia, Carbonic Acid Ammonium Salt, Bicarbonate of Ammonia, Ammonium Acid Carbonate, Ammonium Salt Carbonate, Ammonium Carbonate Basic, ABC Leavening Agent, Food Grade Ammonium Bicarbonate, Leavening Agent E503, Ammonium Sesquicarbonate, Ammonium Hydrogencarbonate
APPLICATIONS
Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in bakery products such as cookies, crackers, and flatbreads to provide leavening without moisture retention.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is applied in traditional recipes like gingerbread for its quick decomposition and ability to produce crisp textures.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of puff pastries, biscuits, and certain dry bakery goods requiring open crumb structure.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the pharmaceutical industry as a reagent and for effervescent tablets.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is also utilized in fire extinguishers, cleaning agents, and some chemical manufacturing processes.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate can be used in fertilizers as a nitrogen source in certain agricultural applications.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is widely used in the baking industry as a leavening agent, where it helps dough rise by releasing carbon dioxide when heated, resulting in light and fluffy baked goods.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the production of cookies, crackers, and biscuits, where it contributes to the texture and crispness of these products.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of cakes and muffins, where it helps improve the texture and volume of the batter.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is applied in the formulation of puffed and aerated food products, where it helps create a light, airy texture by generating gas during the heating process.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of confectionery products, such as candies and chewing gum, where it acts as a leavening agent, improving texture and consistency.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the food industry for the production of crunchy snacks, where it enhances the crispiness and texture of products like potato chips and popcorn.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of savory baked goods, such as crackers and pretzels, where it helps achieve the desired crispness and lightness.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the formulation of dough conditioners, where it helps improve the texture and elasticity of dough, making it easier to handle and work with.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the manufacture of high-fat, aerated baked goods, where it helps achieve the right balance of texture and volume in cookies and pastries.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of instant soups and sauces, where it helps improve texture and ensures the uniformity of the final product.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the creation of dairy products, such as cheese and butter, where it helps in the fermentation process and ensures proper texture and consistency.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is applied in the production of frozen foods, where it helps maintain texture and consistency when the product is thawed.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of food additives, such as baking powders and other raising agents, where it helps achieve the desired volume and texture in baked goods.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the preparation of gluten-free products, where it helps achieve the right texture and consistency in gluten-free dough and batter.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of bread, where it helps enhance the rise and texture of the dough during baking.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of non-dairy milk substitutes, where it helps improve texture and mouthfeel by providing a smooth consistency to the milk alternative.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of crispy coatings for fried foods, where it helps create a light, crunchy texture on the surface of fried items.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the creation of air-puffed breakfast cereals, where it helps achieve the desired light and crisp texture in puffed grain products.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the formulation of baby food products, where it helps enhance the texture and consistency of purees and other baby food items.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the formulation of low-sodium or low-fat food products, where it helps replace other more sodium-rich ingredients, providing leavening and texture without excess salt.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of food glazes and coatings, where it contributes to the texture and appearance of the finished product.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of edible decorations, such as cake toppings, where it helps to enhance texture and create a stable, light color.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is applied in the production of fat-reduced or low-calorie baked goods, where it helps improve the texture and lightness of the product without adding significant fat content.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the formulation of energy bars and protein bars, where it provides a light, airy texture to the bar and enhances its overall mouthfeel.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of traditional cookies and biscuits, where it helps improve the crispness and texture, giving the product a light, crunchy bite.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the preparation of ice cream toppings, where it contributes to a smooth texture and enhances the overall mouthfeel of the topping.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the creation of plant-based food products, such as vegan cookies and cakes, where it helps improve texture and leavening without animal-derived ingredients.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the production of breading and batter mixes, where it helps achieve a light, crispy texture in fried food coatings.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used in the preparation of crunchy granola and breakfast cereals, where it helps provide a crisp, airy texture to the final product.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is employed in the formulation of food stabilizers, where it helps maintain texture and consistency in food products that undergo high temperatures or processing.
DESCRIPTION
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate appears as a white crystalline powder or granules with a slight ammonia odor.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate decomposes readily at temperatures above 35°C, releasing carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water vapor.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is soluble in water but insoluble in alcohol and organic solvents.
Due to its rapid decomposition, it is particularly suitable for dry and crisp baked goods where complete gas release without residual taste is desired.
Storage stability is limited by exposure to humidity and heat.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is an inorganic compound commonly used as a leavening agent in the food industry, where it releases carbon dioxide gas when heated, causing doughs and batters to rise.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, providing a stable, consistent source of carbon dioxide gas in baked goods.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is a versatile ingredient in the food industry, often used in combination with other leavening agents like baking soda or cream of tartar to achieve the desired texture and rise in baked goods.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is known for its ability to produce light, airy textures in baked goods, making it ideal for use in cookies, crackers, and puffed snacks.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is often used in the production of low-fat and fat-free baked goods, where it helps maintain texture and volume while reducing the need for added fats.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is also used in savory snack foods like chips and pretzels, where it helps achieve a crunchy, crispy texture in the final product.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is a mild base and can react with acids in certain formulations, helping control the pH and improve the texture and flavor profile of the product.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is used as an ingredient in leavening systems, providing consistent gas release during baking, leading to light and fluffy products.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is a safe and regulated ingredient, approved for use in food products across many countries, including the US and EU, where it is used to improve the texture of various food items.
E503 Ammonium Bicarbonate is often preferred over other leavening agents in certain baked goods due to its ability to provide a crisp texture without affecting the flavor of the product.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: NH4HCO3
Molecular Weight: 79.06 g/mol
Common Name: Ammonium Bicarbonate
Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules
Odor: Slight ammonia smell
Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol
pH (1% solution): Approximately 7.8
Melting Point: Decomposes at ~35°C (no true melting point)
Stability: Decomposes on heating; stable under dry, cool conditions
Storage Temperature: Below 25°C in dry environment
Shelf Life: 6–12 months if properly stored
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Wash skin with soap and water.
Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes.
Consult a physician if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth thoroughly with water.
If large quantities are ingested, seek medical advice.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
Ammonia vapor release may cause mucous membrane irritation in large exposures.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Wear protective gloves and goggles during handling.
Avoid inhalation of dust and direct contact with skin and eyes.
Use only in well-ventilated areas.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Sweep up carefully to avoid dust formation.
Store in sealed containers for reuse or disposal.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat and moisture.
Keep away from acids and oxidizing agents.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid moisture and humidity exposure to prevent decomposition and release of ammonia gas.
Store separately from incompatible substances.