Comparing E500II - Sodium bicarbonate vs E501I - Potassium carbonate
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Found in 36,658 products
Found in 619 products
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Search volume over time
Interest over time for 6 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
What does baking soda do?
It’s a leavening agent (sodium bicarbonate) that releases carbon dioxide when it reacts with acids, helping batters and doughs rise. It also raises pH, which can enhance browning and mellow acidity.
What's the difference between baking soda and baking powder?
Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate and needs an added acid to work; baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate plus acidic salts and usually starch. Most baking powders are double-acting, releasing gas when wet and again when heated.
Can i use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Yes—if you add an acid: for each 1 tsp baking powder, use about 1/4 tsp baking soda plus 1/2 tsp cream of tartar (or an equivalent acidic ingredient like lemon juice, yogurt, or buttermilk). Adjust liquids if using acidic liquids so the batter isn’t too wet.
Does baking soda go bad?
It doesn’t spoil, but it can lose leavening power after opening, especially if exposed to moisture or odors. For baking, replace about every 6 months after opening or test by adding some to vinegar/hot water—vigorous fizz means it’s still active.
Can i use baking powder instead of baking soda?
Often, yes: use roughly 3 times as much baking powder as baking soda (1 tsp soda ≈ 3 tsp powder). Because powder already includes acid and starch, reduce other acidic ingredients if needed, and expect slight changes in flavor or texture.
Is potassium carbonate soluble?
Yes—it's highly soluble in water and deliquescent. It is insoluble in ethanol.
Is potassium carbonate soluble in water?
Yes, it dissolves readily in water to form a strongly alkaline solution.
What is potassium carbonate used for?
In foods, E501(i) is used as a stabiliser and acidity regulator/buffer, and as a leavening aid in some baked goods and alkaline-processed foods like certain noodles and cocoa. It’s also used industrially in making glass and soap.
Is potassium carbonate dangerous?
At approved food-use levels it’s considered safe, but the solid and concentrated solutions are strongly alkaline and can irritate or burn skin and eyes. Those with kidney disease or on potassium‑sparing medications should avoid excessive potassium intake.
How to make potassium carbonate?
Industrial production absorbs carbon dioxide into potassium hydroxide solution to form K2CO3; historically it was obtained from leached wood ashes. For food use, only purchase certified food‑grade material—home production isn’t recommended.