Ingredient · Updated
Baking Soda
Found in 64 productsSee all
What is Baking Soda?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally occurring mineral compound. It is typically manufactured through a chemical process involving salt, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. The result is a fine white powder known for its alkaline properties.
Baking soda is commonly used in food preparation, primarily as a leavening agent in baked goods. When mixed with an acid, it produces carbon dioxide gas which helps dough rise. It's also used in some personal care products for its odor-neutralizing abilities. While generally considered safe, overconsumption may lead to imbalances in the body's acid-base levels.
On ingredient labels, baking soda may be listed as sodium bicarbonate. It's often found in baking powder, but you might also see it in certain prescription medications or cleaning products.
Commonly found in: Bread, Cakes, Cookies, Toothpaste, Deodorant, Cleaning Products
What to watch
- High consumption can lead to metabolic alkalosis, a condition where the body becomes too alkaline.
Benefits
- Used in baking to aid in rising and texture improvement.
- Neutralizes odors, making it a popular ingredient in personal care products.
Baking soda is recognized by the FDA as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food.
Research supports its effectiveness in baking and deodorizing, but excessive intake may pose health risks.
Baking soda is mineral-based and suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)
Scout's take
Leavening agent. Functional and benign.
The case against
Excessive consumption can lead to alkalosis, but this is unlikely in typical culinary use.
from the analysis of Siete Mexican Chocolate Cookie - 4.5oz · echoed in 3 other analysesExcessive consumption can lead to alkalosis and electrolyte imbalances.
from the analysis of Simple Mills Crunchy Mini Cookies · echoed in 3 other analysesThere are no significant risks associated with baking soda in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Dapple On the Go Fragrance Free Dish Soap Travel Size · echoed in 1 other analysisIt can cause skin irritation or rash in some people, especially with sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Native Deodorant Aluminum Free Sea Salt & Cedar for Women and MenExcessive consumption may lead to high sodium intake.
from the analysis of Evergreen peanut butter BANANA BREAD MINI WAFFLESThe case for
Essential for leavening in baking, contributing to the texture and volume of baked goods.
from the analysis of Honey Stinger ORGANIC WAFFLE · echoed in 9 other analysesHelps improve the texture and volume of baked goods.
from the analysis of Mission, SUPER SOFT, FLOUR TORTILLAS · echoed in 2 other analysesBaking soda is effective in removing stains and neutralizing odors without harsh chemicals.
from the analysis of dapple baby ALL PURPOSE CLEANER Fragrance Free · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides leavening properties that improve the texture of baked goods.
from the analysis of Cappello's Chocolate Chip with Flaky Sea Salt · echoed in 1 other analysisHelps dough rise and improves texture in baked goods.
from the analysis of PEPPERIDGE FARM CRACKERS · echoed in 1 other analysisMore from Scout's analyses
Baking soda is a leavening agent used to help baked goods rise. It is a simple chemical compound with no significant nutritional value. It is generally recognized as safe when used in typical culinary amounts.
from the analysis of Simple Mills Crackers Sweet Thin HoneyBaking soda is a leavening agent used to help baked goods rise. It is a simple chemical compound with no significant nutritional value. It reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, creating a light texture.
from the analysis of Honey Stinger ORGANIC WAFFLEStandard leavening agent.
from the analysis of Bakr Brown Butter Chocolate ChunkAll 64 products with Baking Soda
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Where Baking Soda shows up
- Cookies 22 products
- Deodorant 9 products
- Snack Bars 6 products
- Protein Bars 3 products
- Crackers 3 products
- Salty Snacks 3 products
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