Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda or lye, is a highly alkaline compound essential in numerous 식품 가공 operations. 식품 산업, it is used primarily as a processing aid for peeling fruits 및 vegetables, adjusting pH, 및 treating olives.
It plays a critical role in the production of cocoa 및 chocolate through the Dutch process, which modifies color 및 flavor. Sodium hydroxide is also used in pretzel 및 bagel production to create the characteristic dark, glossy crust. Food-grade sodium hydroxide is manufactured to stringent purity standards to ensure safety in all food contact applications.