E927B – Urea (Carbamide)
Flour treatment agentDescription
Technical Description: White, crystalline solid; hygroscopic; used as a dough strengthener and bread improver.
Notes
Carbamide, more commonly known as urea, is a white, crystalline compound that occurs naturally in the urine of mammals and many other animals. For food use, it's typically produced synthetically through industrial processes that combine ammonia and carbon dioxide under high pressure and temperature, creating a pure, food-grade product. In food production, carbamide functions as a dough strengthener and bread improver, helping to create better texture and structure in baked goods. It works by providing nitrogen that feeds the yeast and strengthens the gluten network in bread dough, resulting in better rise and a more consistent crumb structure. You'll find it used in various commercial bread products, pizza doughs, and other yeast-based baked items. While the synthetic version used in food is chemically identical to naturally occurring urea, some consumers may find its association with biological waste off-putting, even though the food-grade version is completely pure and safe. It's suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets since the commercial product is synthetically produced. The additive is generally recognized as safe by food authorities, though it's used in very small quantities in food applications.