Bicarbonate of Soda vs Baking Soda - Are They the Same Thing?

Bicarbonate of Soda vs Baking Soda - What's the Difference?

Baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are two ingredients frequently used in cooking and baking. But what exactly are they, and are baking soda and bicarbonate of soda the same thing? Here's a detailed look at these common kitchen staples.

Defining Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical salt compound with the formula NaHCO3. It has mild abrasive properties, alkalinity, and reacts under heat or acidity to release carbon dioxide bubbles. This makes it useful for various cooking and cleaning purposes.

Defining Bicarbonate of Soda

The term "bicarbonate of soda" refers to the same substance as baking soda. Bicarbonate of soda is merely another name chemistry uses to describe sodium bicarbonate or NaHCO3.

Are Baking Soda and Bicarbonate of Soda the Same Thing?

Yes, baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are exactly the same. Both refer to the chemical salt sodium bicarbonate.

Regional Naming Differences

The terms "baking soda" and "bicarbonate of soda" are used interchangeably. However, there are some regional differences:

• In the United States and Canada, people refer to it as baking soda.
• In the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, people call it bicarbonate of soda.

But chemically speaking, these names denote the same compound, sodium bicarbonate.

Interchangeable Uses

Regardless of whether you call it "baking soda" or "bicarbonate of soda", this ingredient can be used interchangeably in recipes. So if you only have baking soda in your pantry when a recipe calls for bicarbonate of soda (or vice versa), you can safely use it with equivalent results.

Baking Soda vs. Baking Powder

While baking soda and baking powder are both leaveners used in baking, they are slightly different chemically:

• Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate.
• Baking powder contains other ingredients like cornstarch and acidifying agents.

When to Use Each

Use baking soda when a recipe already contains an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, yogurt, buttermilk, honey, chocolate, etc. The acid causes the baking soda to react and release carbon dioxide bubbles.

Use baking powder if a recipe doesn't contain enough acid ingredients. The acidifying agents contained within baking powder allow it to form bubbles all on its own.

Benefits and Uses of Baking Soda

From cooking to cleaning, baking soda can be used in many helpful ways:

Cooking and Baking

Baking soda is used to leaven baked goods and affects texture and volume:

• Makes baked goods rise higher through released carbon dioxide bubbles.
• Enhances flavor and browning through alkalinity.
• Helps baked good retain moisture longer.

Natural Non-Toxic Cleaner

As a household cleaner, baking soda offers effective and eco-friendly cleaning power:

• Deodorizes surfaces, carpets, fridges, and rooms.
• Polishes metal pots, pans, and silverware.
• Scrubs tile, tub, shower, sinks, and more
• Unclogs drains by dissolving hair and grime.

Health and Beauty

Baking soda also has applications for personal care:

• Exfoliates and cleanses skin.
• Alleviates sunburn pain and itchiness
• Neutralizes foot and body odor.
• Whitens teeth through gentle abrasion.

Is Baking Soda Safe?

Yes, baking soda is generally recognized as safe for consumption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But taking too much can cause side effects.

For Consumption

If ingested in small amounts, such as through baked goods, baking soda poses little risk for healthy people. But taking too much baking soda can lead to:

• Digestive issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea
• Dehydration from increased urination
• Electrolyte imbalance

For Cleaning

As a cleaner, baking soda is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. But can still irritate lungs or skin after prolonged direct contact for people with sensitivities.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Check with your doctor before consuming baking soda if pregnant or nursing. There are some concerns higher sodium levels could be problematic.

Creative Uses for Baking Soda

From the kitchen, to self care routines, to household cleaning - baking soda's versatility lends itself useful in various ways:

Fridge and Freezer Odor Remover

Place an open box of baking soda inside refrigerators or freezers to absorb lingering odors.

Produce Freshness Booster

Add a dash of baking soda to the water when prepping fruits and vegetables to wash away pesticides and wax, while also keeping them fresher longer.

All-Purpose Scrub

Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste for effective yet gentle scrubbing on surfaces and staining.

Heartburn Relief

Stir a teaspoon into water and drink slowly for a natural home remedy for acid reflux and heartburn.

So in summary, while baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are interchangeable names, both still refer to the same sodium bicarbonate compound. Just be aware there are some subtle naming conventions between countries.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.