What it is
E500 covers sodium carbonate (E500i, "soda ash") and sodium bicarbonate (E500ii, baking soda). Mineral-sourced.
Why it matters
Baking soda is the everyday raising agent. Sodium carbonate is the acidity regulator in ramen noodles, the alkali in cocoa processing ("Dutch process"), and the foundation of many cleaning products.
What to do
Always vegan.