Is E500 halal?

What is E500?

A group of three simple sodium salts: sodium carbonate (soda ash), sodium hydrogen carbonate (baking soda) and sodium sesquicarbonate, which is a mix of the two. They are made in chemical plants from common salt and limestone, or refined from natural soda minerals such as trona.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

These are mineral salts made from salt, limestone or mined minerals. No animal material, insect or alcohol is involved in making them. In dough they simply release carbon dioxide gas, which makes it rise. There is no known halal catch for this additive.

How to check the label

No special check is needed. “Baking soda”, “bicarbonate of soda” or E500 on a label are fine on their own. If the food has other doubtful ingredients, judge those separately.

Where you'll find it

• cakes and biscuits
• baking powder
• crackers
• alkaline noodles
• soda bread

Good to know

• E500 covers three forms: E500(i) sodium carbonate, E500(ii) sodium hydrogen carbonate, also called bicarbonate of soda or baking soda, and E500(iii) sodium sesquicarbonate.
• Baking soda raises dough by releasing carbon dioxide when it meets an acid or heat. Baking powder is baking soda mixed with a dry acid.

Similar additives

• E339 Sodium phosphates Generally halal
• E450 Diphosphates Generally halal
• E171 Titanium dioxide Generally halal
• E551 Silicon dioxide Generally halal
• E260 Acetic acid Generally halal
• E270 Lactic acid Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EU additive specifications, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 (E 500)

Frequently asked questions