E927A – Azodicarbonamide

Description

Technical Description: A chemical blowing agent used in the production of foamed plastics and rubber; also used as a flour bleaching and dough conditioning agent.

Risks

Notes

Azodicarbonamide is a synthetic chemical compound that appears as a yellow to orange crystalline powder. It's manufactured through chemical processes involving compounds like urea and chlorine, creating a substance that serves multiple purposes in commercial baking and food production. This additive works as both a flour bleaching agent and a dough conditioner, helping to improve the texture and workability of bread dough while also whitening the flour. It also acts as a blowing agent, creating tiny bubbles that help make bread and other baked goods lighter and more airy. You'll commonly find it in commercial breads, burger buns, pizza dough, and other yeast-based baked products. Azodicarbonamide is entirely synthetic and suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. However, it has faced some regulatory scrutiny in recent years, leading some countries and food manufacturers to phase out its use in favor of alternative dough conditioners. While still approved in many places, some consumers prefer to seek out products labeled as free from this additive.