Baking soda

Definition

Baking soda is a chemical leavener, or raising agent, that reacts with acidic ingredients to produce leavening gases. Baking soda is also used as an antacid and in other medicinal applications.

Keep in mind

Baking soda can be used to extinguish small grease fires and can be added to cooking water to soften vegetables or beans, though this may diminish nutrient content.

May be found in

Baking powder, self-raising flour, cake mixes, quickbread mixes, batter mixes

References

Medline Plus

Alternative Spellings and Names

Bicarb, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, bicarb soda, bicarbonate of soda, E500