Does Bisquick Have Additives? Unpacking the Ingredients

According to the ingredient list on a box of Bisquick Original, yes, it does contain multiple additives. This pre-mixed baking product, known for simplifying pancakes and biscuits, includes several ingredients beyond basic flour and fat to ensure a consistent, shelf-stable product for consumers.

Quick Summary

An examination of Bisquick's ingredient list reveals several additives, such as sodium aluminum phosphate and monoglycerides, used to provide leavening, texture, and stability. Understanding these ingredients helps in deciding between a convenient boxed mix and a homemade alternative.

Key Points

• Additives are present: Bisquick contains several additives, including leavening agents and emulsifiers, beyond basic baking staples.

• Leavening includes SALP: The mix uses a combination of leavening agents, including sodium aluminum phosphate (SALP), for rise and texture.

• Emulsifiers enhance stability: Additives like DATEM and monoglycerides are used to prevent separation and improve the product's shelf-stability and texture.

• Ultra-processed classification: Due to its multiple non-kitchen ingredients, Bisquick is often classified as an ultra-processed food.

• Homemade alternatives are simple: An additive-free version can be made at home using four basic ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and fat.

• Different mixes have different ingredients: Some versions, like Bisquick Complete, contain additional dairy or egg ingredients, while other formulas have changed over time.

• BHT is likely not present: Bisquick original is generally considered BHA & BHT free, but it's always best to check the current label.

What Additives Are in Bisquick?

An investigation into the ingredient list of a standard box of Bisquick Original Pancake and Baking Mix reveals a number of additives that may not be present in a simple homemade version. While the mix provides convenience, the additions ensure a long shelf-life and consistent results. The primary additives can be grouped into a few key categories, serving specific functions in the baking process and the mix's shelf-stability.

Leavening Agents

Leavening agents are crucial for making pancakes and biscuits light and fluffy. Bisquick relies on a combination of chemical leaveners to create this effect.

• Sodium Aluminum Phosphate (SALP): This is a key leavening acid that reacts with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing the batter to rise. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has classified this ingredient as a moderate concern in food.
• Monocalcium Phosphate: Another leavening acid that works alongside baking soda to provide an initial lift when the wet ingredients are combined.

Emulsifiers

Emulsifiers are used to prevent ingredients from separating and to improve the texture of the finished product. In Bisquick, they help create a tender crumb and a smooth batter.

• DATEM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Ester of Mono- and Diglycerides): This emulsifier is added to strengthen dough and improve the volume of baked goods.
• Monoglycerides: These are also emulsifiers that help distribute the fat throughout the mix and contribute to a softer texture.

Other Added Ingredients

Beyond the functional additives, other ingredients are included for enrichment and texture.

• Enriched Bleached Flour: The primary ingredient in Bisquick, this is wheat flour that has been bleached and then enriched with vitamins and iron. The bleaching process is an additional step not typically found in simple homemade mixes.
• Dextrose: A type of sugar used to add a touch of sweetness and aid in browning during cooking.

A Closer Look at Bisquick vs. Homemade Mix

Choosing between a commercial mix and a homemade one often comes down to balancing convenience with ingredient control. A side-by-side comparison highlights the key differences.

Feature	Bisquick Original	Homemade Baking Mix (e.g., Bisquick style)
Convenience	Simply add a couple of wet ingredients (e.g., milk and eggs) to make a wide range of baked goods.	Requires measuring and mixing several staple ingredients upfront.
Ingredients	Contains enriched bleached flour, multiple leavening agents (including SALP), emulsifiers like DATEM and monoglycerides, vegetable oil, dextrose, and sugar.	Made with basic, common pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening or butter.
Shelf-Life	Long, shelf-stable due to additives and processing methods.	Shorter, requires refrigeration if made with butter, although shelf-stable shortening can extend pantry life.
Ingredient Control	Little to no control over specific ingredients or their sourcing.	Complete control over ingredients, allowing for natural, whole wheat, or custom substitutions.
Processing	Classified as an ultra-processed food by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), due to the number of non-kitchen ingredients.	Generally considered minimally processed, depending on the individual ingredients used.

The Health Implications of Additives

While the additives found in Bisquick are approved for use by regulatory bodies, their inclusion is part of why it is considered an ultra-processed food. The EWG, for example, flags sodium aluminum phosphate as a concern, while also noting that other emulsifiers can be a source of artificial trans fats. These concerns often prompt health-conscious consumers to opt for fresher, homemade alternatives where they can control the exact contents. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients like dextrose and added sugars can contribute to overall higher sugar intake.

How to Make a Simple, Additive-Free Bisquick Alternative

Creating your own baking mix is straightforward and allows you to completely avoid the additives present in the store-bought version. A simple recipe requires just a few pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable shortening (or cold butter, diced)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Pulse for 15 seconds to mix thoroughly.
2. Add the shortening or cold butter to the flour mixture. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
3. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. For the longest shelf life, store in the refrigerator or freezer, especially if using butter.

This homemade version is more versatile and provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing every ingredient. When ready to bake, simply use this mix as a 1:1 replacement for Bisquick in your favorite recipes. Keep in mind that a homemade version with a natural fat may have a shorter shelf-life than its store-bought counterpart due to the lack of stabilizing additives.

Conclusion

Yes, Bisquick contains several additives, including leavening agents like sodium aluminum phosphate and emulsifiers like DATEM and monoglycerides, which are used for leavening, texture, and shelf-stability. While these ingredients provide convenience, they are not typically found in a basic homemade mix. For those seeking to control their ingredient intake or reduce their consumption of ultra-processed foods, making a simple, additive-free baking mix at home is a readily available and straightforward solution.

BettyCrocker.com provides a list of ingredients for the Original Bisquick mix, including the additives discussed.

Lists of Key Bisquick Ingredients

Leavening Agents:

• Baking Soda
• Sodium Aluminum Phosphate
• Monocalcium Phosphate

Emulsifiers:

• DATEM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Ester of Mono- and Diglycerides)
• Monoglycerides

Other Key Ingredients:

• Enriched Bleached Flour
• Vegetable Oil (Palm, Canola and/or Soybean oil)
• Corn Starch
• Dextrose
• Salt
• Sugar

Other Considerations

• Enriched Flour: A key component, providing the base for the mix.

• Refined Oils: The use of refined oils, like palm, canola, and soybean, adds to the mix's stability but may contain traces of trans fats.

• High Sodium Content: Bisquick contains a relatively high amount of sodium, which is often a point of concern for those monitoring their salt intake.

• Bleaching: The flour is chemically bleached to achieve a whiter appearance and a softer texture.

• Dextrose as Sweetener: A form of sugar, dextrose contributes to the mix's taste and aids in browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sodium aluminum phosphate in Bisquick?

Sodium aluminum phosphate (SALP) is a chemical leavening acid found in Bisquick that reacts with baking soda to help the mix rise, creating a fluffy texture in pancakes and biscuits.

Does Bisquick contain any preservatives?

While Bisquick Original is labeled as having no added preservatives on Amazon, its shelf-stability relies on its combination of processed ingredients, refined oils, and lack of perishable items. Some varieties, like Gluten Free Bisquick, explicitly state no preservatives.

Why is Bisquick considered an ultra-processed food?

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) classifies Bisquick as ultra-processed because it contains numerous ingredients, such as specific leavening agents and emulsifiers, that are not typically found in a traditional kitchen.

Is there a homemade version of Bisquick without additives?

Yes, a homemade alternative can be made with a few simple ingredients, including all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening or butter, allowing for complete control over the contents.

What are DATEM and monoglycerides in Bisquick?

DATEM and monoglycerides are emulsifiers included in Bisquick to improve the texture of the mix, prevent ingredients from separating, and ensure the final baked goods have a consistent, tender crumb.

Has the Bisquick recipe changed over the years?

Yes, the Bisquick recipe has undergone changes over time, including adjustments to the ratio of ingredients and the removal of certain components like partially hydrogenated soybean oil to eliminate artificial trans fats.

Does Bisquick contain BHT?

Bisquick Original is reported as likely BHA and BHT free by the Fig App based on label information. However, it is always recommended to check the packaging for the most current information.