Arm & Hammer · 14 oz
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda for Baking and Cleaning
What it is
This is a versatile pantry staple, Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, packaged in a 14-ounce container. It is a fine, white crystalline powder that is naturally occurring and commonly used in kitchens for a variety of purposes. Its primary function in baking is as a leavening agent, reacting with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise and become light and fluffy. Beyond baking, it's also known for its deodorizing and mild abrasive properties, making it useful for cleaning tasks around the house.
How people cook with it
Baking soda is a kitchen essential, valued for its dual role in both culinary creations and household upkeep.
- Leavening baked goods
- Neutralizing odors
- Gentle scrubbing
- Refreshing fabrics
In baking, baking soda is typically combined with an acidic ingredient like buttermilk, yogurt, or lemon juice. When these ingredients mix, a chemical reaction occurs, creating bubbles that expand during baking, resulting in a lighter texture. For cleaning, it can be made into a paste with water to scrub surfaces, or placed in open containers to absorb odors in refrigerators and freezers. It can also be sprinkled on carpets or upholstery to freshen them, then vacuumed up. Its mild abrasive nature makes it effective for removing grime without scratching most surfaces.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to baking powder, baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate. Baking powder contains both baking soda and an acid, along with a filler. This means baking soda requires an additional acidic ingredient in a recipe to activate its leavening power, whereas baking powder is a complete leavening system on its own.
Who it is for
Home bakers and cooks often keep baking soda on hand for its essential leavening properties.
How to keep the rest
To maintain its effectiveness, store Arm & Hammer Baking Soda in a cool, dry place in its original container. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause it to clump and reduce its leavening capabilities. Keep it away from strong odors, as it can absorb them.