“Raising Agent (E500(ii))” means sodium hydrogen carbonate, the chemical name for baking soda or bicarbonate of soda. E500(ii) is the European number; in the Codex system it is INS 500 (ii). The parent number 500 covers the sodium carbonates, and the sub-index (ii) names this specific one. Besides raising agent, Codex lists it as an acidity regulator and anti-caking agent.
When heated, or when it meets an acid in the dough, baking soda releases carbon dioxide. The gas bubbles expand and set, giving cakes a light, open crumb. Used on its own in large amounts it can leave a soapy taste, so it is usually combined with an acid ingredient or an acidic salt, as in baking powder.
In the Japanese Shoei Tokyo Sweet Banana Gift Box, it helps the soft sponge rise. Sodium hydrogen carbonate is one of the most widely used food additives and is permitted in foods worldwide.
