Sodium Bicarbonate appears as a white crystalline powder or granules. Sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkaline compound. It is used as a leavening agent in food. It also functions as a buffering agent in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. Other applications include neutralisation in water treatment and industrial processes, where it is used to adjust acidity. Packaging options include 25 kg bags, 1000 kg big bags and bulk. Food use as E 500 is subject to the applicable food-additive specification and permitted-use conditions. Cosmetic use is subject to the applicable cosmetic-ingredient conditions. Pharmaceutical use requires the applicable pharmacopoeia grade.