Is Azodicarbonamide Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Azodicarbonamide is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (processing aids).
CAS 123-77-3.
Other names: ADA, E927b
Is Azodicarbonamide banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | bread, buns, baked goods |
| CAS number | 123-77-3 |
What is Azodicarbonamide?
Azodicarbonamide is a dough conditioner and flour bleaching agent.
Why is Azodicarbonamide used in food?
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
Is Azodicarbonamide dangerous? Documented risks
Banned in the EU; breaks down into semicarbazide, a possible carcinogen, during baking.
Common US products containing Azodicarbonamide
How to avoid Azodicarbonamide: safer alternatives
Choose minimally processed and EU-imported foods, read labels for these additives, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag them.
Frequently asked questions about Azodicarbonamide
Is Azodicarbonamide banned in the EU?
Yes — Azodicarbonamide is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
Is Azodicarbonamide allowed in the US?
Azodicarbonamide is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Why is Azodicarbonamide a concern?
Independent reviews flag Azodicarbonamide for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
How do I avoid Azodicarbonamide?
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag Azodicarbonamide instantly.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Azodicarbonamide or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related processing aids
Avoiding banned food additives? Check your beauty shelf, too.
Sources
- Banned ingredients in other countries — Food Revolution Network
- EFSA food additives — EFSA
- FDA Food Additives — U.S. FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.