Ammonium bicarbonate

Ammonium bicarbonate (CAS 1066-33-7) is an inorganic salt commercially known as AmBic or monoammonium carbonate, with the molecular formula CH₅NO₃. It carries no E-number designation but is recognised under EC number 213-911-5 and traded under abbreviations including NH₄HCO₃ and acidammoniumcarbonate.

In food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, ammonium bicarbonate functions as a leavening agent and pH buffer by releasing carbon dioxide and ammonia upon heating, producing a characteristic rise in baked goods without leaving alkaline residues. In agriculture, it serves as a nitrogen source and soil pH corrective, while in personal care formulations it acts as a skin conditioner and antimicrobial stabiliser.

Ammonium bicarbonate is available in food-grade (FCC-compliant) and technical-grade forms, supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules. It is subject to REACH registration and can be sourced to Ph.Eur. standards for pharmaceutical applications. Typical packaging includes 25 kg bags and bulk quantities for industrial procurement.