Sodium hydroxide
Learn what Sodium hydroxide (E524) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sodium hydroxide?
A food additive used as an acidity regulator. Also known as caustic soda. It is used in the quantities specified by recipes in dairy products, cheese, puddings, condensed or powdered milk, butter and products from dehydrated whey, spreadable fats, various emulsions, sweet creams, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits, vegetable products, meat, fish, eggs, soups, broths, sauces, salads, bakery products, pastries and confectionery, pre-cooked rice and pasta, spices, dietary supplements, diet products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, etc.
Why is Sodium hydroxide added to food?
Sodium hydroxide (E524) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Cheese, dairy products, powdered milk, margarine.
Permitted quantity: There is no daily limit for consumption.
Is Sodium hydroxide safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in food products.
Is Sodium hydroxide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium hydroxide okay for kids?
It is allowed in cereal products intended for infants and young children, in the amounts specified by recipes.
Common foods that contain Sodium hydroxide
- Cheese
- dairy products
- powdered milk
- margarine
How to spot Sodium hydroxide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E524
- Sodium hydroxide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium hydroxlde
- sodlum hydroxide
- $odium hydroxide
- sodium hydroxide
Better alternatives
• People with kidney conditions should avoid using sodium hydroxide, as it can lead to sodium buildup in the body, affecting electrolyte balance and kidney function. • Not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, as sodium can raise blood pressure and worsen cardiovascular conditions. • Excessive use can cause severe burns on the skin or mucous membranes, as well as severe gastrointestinal irritation, such as abdominal pain and vomiting. • Avoid using in combination with medications that affect sodium balance or interfere with kidney function.
Also known as
- sodium hydroxlde
- sodlum hydroxide
- $odium hydroxide
- sodium hydroxide
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium hydroxide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E524 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium hydroxide
- Is Sodium hydroxide safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in food products.
- Is Sodium hydroxide banned anywhere?
- Sodium hydroxide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium hydroxide safe for children?
- It is allowed in cereal products intended for infants and young children, in the amounts specified by recipes.
- How do I spot Sodium hydroxide on a food label?
- Look for E524, Sodium hydroxide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium hydroxlde, sodlum hydroxide, $odium hydroxide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.