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3. Preservatives To extend the shelf-life of baked goods, preservatives are often added to inhibit mold growth and bacterial development. Common preservatives like calcium propionate and sorbic acid help maintain freshness and prevent spoilage, enabling bakeries to reduce food waste and ensure product availability over time.

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is a white crystalline powder that is mildly alkaline. It consists of sodium ions (Na⁺), bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), and has a molar mass of about 84 g/mol. Sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), on the other hand, is a stronger alkaline compound comprised of two sodium ions and one carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻), with a molar mass of approximately 106 g/mol. The pH of sodium bicarbonate when dissolved in water is close to neutral, making it a gentle agent for various applications. In contrast, sodium carbonate is highly alkaline and can adjust the pH of solutions to be very alkaline, making it useful in more industrial contexts.

The maximum acceptable daily intake for human consumption is 25 mg/kg, or 1750 mg daily for an average adult (70 kg).Under some conditions, particularly at high concentrations or when combined with nitrites, potassium sorbate has shown genotoxic activity in vitro.

Anti-caking agents are typically fine powders that are either added to food products directly or are present as additives in the processing phase. They work by absorbing moisture, which is often responsible for clumping. When food products attract moisture from the air, they tend to stick together to form lumps, making them difficult to use. Anti-caking agents mitigate this issue by creating a barrier that prevents moisture from binding with the particles.

However, like many food additives, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution. While E481 is derived from natural sources, it is always advisable to check product labels for transparency regarding ingredients.

Potassium sorbate can prevent the growth of fungi, mold, yeast, and other potentially harmful foodborne pathogens. Although this natural preservative isn’t as effective against bacteria, and will need to be complemented with other preservatives, such as rosemary or sodium benzoate.