Edible alkali is solid, round, white and easily soluble in water. Alkali is not a common condiment, but a kind of food swelling agent and meat tenderizer, which can make dry raw materials swell rapidly, soften fibers and remove the sour taste of dough. Proper use can bring excellent color, fragrance, taste and shape to food, thus increasing people's appetite. Alkali is widely used in the processing of noodles, bread, steamed bread and other foods.

The common name of sodium carbonate (soda ash, soda) is mainly used in food industry, and edible soda ash is used to produce monosodium glutamate, pasta and so on.

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as "baking soda". Loosening agent widely used in food industry is used to produce biscuits, cakes, steamed bread, bread and so on. It is the producer of carbon dioxide in soft drinks.