INS 503
salts and related compoundsAmmonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate
Halal
Is INS 503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate) halal?
Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What to do
Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.
Where is INS 503 used?
INS (International Numbering System) codes are maintained by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and used on food labels in many countries outside the EU. You will commonly see INS 503 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E503. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E503
INS 503 and E503 refer to the same food additive — Ammonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E503 on the label instead.
See full E503 halal guide →About INS 503
Miscellaneous - acids and salts: carbonates
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic (ammonia + CO₂)
Foods that commonly contain INS 503
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate) halal?
INS 503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 503 used for?
INS 503 is used as a raising agent - used in old-fashioned biscuit/cookie recipes in food products.
What is the difference between INS 503 and E503?
INS 503 and E503 are the same additive — Ammonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E503) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 503?
INS 503 (Ammonium Bicarbonate/Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate) is commonly found in: shortbread, ginger nuts, crackers, some confectionery.
What is INS 503 made from?
INS 503 can be derived from: synthetic (ammonia + CO₂).
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