Grocery
Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda
What it is
This is a common household ingredient made of sodium bicarbonate. It is a white crystalline powder that is odorless and has a slightly salty taste. It is often found in the baking aisle of grocery stores. Its chemical properties make it useful in a variety of applications beyond just baking.
How people cook with it
Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both cooking and cleaning. Its leavening properties are well-known in baking.
- Leavening baked goods
- Neutralizing odors
- Gentle scrubbing
- Soothing minor irritations
In baking, it reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough and batter to rise. This creates a lighter and airier texture in cakes, cookies, and breads. Beyond the kitchen, it can be dissolved in water to create a paste for cleaning surfaces or used in a shallow dish to absorb odors in refrigerators and other spaces. It can also be added to bathwater for a soothing soak or used to gently polish metal items.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to baking powder, baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate and requires an acid to activate its leavening power. Baking powder contains both an acid and a base, making it a complete leavening agent that activates with moisture and heat.
Who it is for
Home bakers and cooks often keep this in their pantry for its leavening capabilities.
How to keep the rest
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and strong odors to maintain its effectiveness. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent clumping and absorption of surrounding smells.