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

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

Baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are two names that refer to the same leavening agent. However, there is a lot of confusion around whether these common kitchen ingredients are the same thing. Here's a detailed look at the similarities, differences, and uses of bicarbonate of soda vs. baking soda.

Chemical Composition

Bicarbonate of soda is the chemical compound sodium bicarbonate. Its chemical formula is NaHCO3. Baking soda is another common name for bicarbonate of soda.

So when it comes to chemical composition, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are exactly the same. These names are interchangeable.

Leavening Abilities

Both bicarbonate of soda and baking soda function as leavening agents in baked goods. When exposed to heat and moisture, they produce carbon dioxide bubbles that cause batter and dough to rise.

For example, when baking soda is mixed into cookie dough or cake batter, the heat from the oven triggers a chemical reaction that releases CO2. These bubbles are trapped as the mixture bakes, leading to a light and airy texture.

Since bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are chemically identical, they have the same leavening power in recipes.

Taste and Texture

Bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are tasteless, so they won't impact flavor when used in cooking and baking. They also won't affect the texture or crumb of baked goods.

The only potential difference is if too much is added, causing excessive rise. So as long as you follow recipe instructions, you can use bicarbonate of soda and baking soda interchangeably without changing the end result.

Reactivity

In addition to producing CO2, baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are amphoteric. This means they can react as either an acid or base. For cooking purposes, it allows both ingredients to balance pH levels.

Acidic ingredients like lemon juice, yogurt, buttermilk, honey, molasses, and chocolate work with baking soda to produce the ideal chemical reaction for rising. Since bicarbonate of soda has the same properties, it can be substituted into any recipe calling for baking soda.

Substitutions in Recipes

Bicarbonate of soda and baking soda have a 1:1 substitution ratio. If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of baking soda, you can use 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda instead. The results will be identical.

Baking powder contains baking soda along with an acidic ingredient like cream of tartar. The baking soda/acid combination creates carbon dioxide bubbles instantly when liquid is added. About 2 teaspoons of baking powder is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

Common Uses of Bicarbonate of Soda vs Baking Soda

Here are some of the most popular ways that both bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are used:

Baking

Baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are most well-known for their role in baking. Just a small amount can help batters and doughs rise effectively. They are commonly used in:

• Cakes, cupcakes, muffins
• Cookies, bars, crisps
• Quick breads like banana bread
• Pancakes, waffles, scones
• Crackers

Leavening Agent

Both ingredients can serve as a leavening agent in place of yeast in recipes like:

• Fried chicken batter
• Hushpuppies
• Fritters
• Falafel
• Tempura batter

Tenderizing Meat

Sprinkling baking soda or bicarbonate of soda onto meat helps break down the fibers to make it more tender. It's often used when cooking tougher cuts like:

• Brisket
• Stew meat
• Pork shoulder

Softening Beans

Adding a pinch of baking soda to dried beans shortens their cooking time and makes them more digestible by allowing the beans to soften and cook evenly.

Boosting Color

The alkalinity provided by baking soda leads to brighter green vegetables like peas, beans, and green beans. It also enhances browning in recipes like cookies, fried foods, roasted potatoes, and meats.

Health Benefits and Uses

Aside from cooking, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are used in several natural health remedies. Their uses derive from their alkaline nature which helps neutralize acidity.

Antacid

Baking soda and bicarbonate of soda can provide quick relief from acid reflux and heartburn when dissolved in water. Their alkalinity neutralizes stomach acid.

Oral Hygiene

Brushing with a baking soda paste helps remove stains from teeth, freshen breath, and balance pH levels in the mouth.

Skin Exfoliant

Mixing baking soda with water and gently massaging it over the skin serves as a soothing exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and product buildup.

Rash/Bug Bite Relief

Creating a paste with baking soda and water can help relieve itchy rashes, bee stings, sunburns, and poison ivy by reducing inflammation.

Deodorizer

Baking soda's absorbent properties help remove odors. It's effective for freshening carpets, upholstery, gym clothes, cat litter boxes, and refrigerators.

Key Differences Between Bicarbonate of Soda and Baking Soda

While these two ingredients share the same chemical makeup, here are a few subtle differences:

Region and Origin

Bicarbonate of soda is the preferred term used in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Baking soda is primarily used in the United States and Canada.

Availability

Baking soda is more widely available worldwide in grocery stores and supermarkets. Bicarbonate of soda can be harder to find in some regions of the US.

Cost

Baking soda is often cheaper than bicarbonate of soda. As an extremely common ingredient, baking soda is produced on a massive scale, keeping costs low.

Quality

With the right brand, bicarbonate of soda is purer versus baking soda. It undergoes more processing to reach its ultra-fine, pure powder form.

Is Arm & Hammer Baking Soda the Same as Bicarbonate of Soda?

Arm & Hammer Baking Soda is a popular brand of baking soda in the US. Despite the different name, Arm & Hammer baking soda shares the same chemical makeup as bicarbonate of soda and can be used interchangeably.

Both Arm & Hammer Baking Soda and bicarbonate of soda are 100% sodium bicarbonate. Using one versus the other will make no difference in recipes or other purposes.

Cooking With Arm & Hammer Baking Soda

Arm & Hammer Baking Soda brings several advantages to cooking and baking:

• Consistent quality and performance
• Precisely formulated for cooking reactions
• Trusted brand used by generations
• Affordable price for a kitchen staple

You can use Arm & Hammer in place of bicarbonate of soda in the same 1:1 ratio. Expect the same rise, texture, and taste.

Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Uses

Outside of baking, Arm & Hammer Baking Soda can also be used interchangeably with bicarbonate of soda for:

• Freshening refrigerators, drains, carpets
• Deodorizing and cleaning
• Boosting laundry detergent
• Soothing heartburn or bee stings
• Exfoliating and cleansing skin

Overall, Arm & Hammer Baking Soda provides high purity sodium bicarbonate for all uses at an affordable price point.

Difference Between Baking Soda and Baking Powder

Baking powder and baking soda both act as leavening agents in baking recipes. However, they are chemically different:

• Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate.
• Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate and an acidic powder like cream of tartar.

These differences mean:

• Baking soda requires an acid and moisture to react and release CO2 bubbles.
• Baking powder contains its own acid to react when liquid is added.

Substituting baking powder for baking soda (or vice versa) can throw off the balance of acidity and alkalinity in a recipe. Here are some guidelines for substitutions:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder = 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda = 3 teaspoons baking powder

Adjustments may be needed based on the other ingredients present. When in doubt, stick to the exact ingredients listed.

Storing Bicarbonate of Soda and Baking Soda

To maintain freshness and leavening power, store bicarbonate of soda and baking soda:

• In a cool, dry place away from light and moisture
• In an airtight container or sealed box/bag
• Away from the oven, heat sources, and warm appliances
• With a piece of tape noting the purchase or open date

Properly stored, both ingredients will stay fresh and effective for 6 months to 1 year. If clumping occurs, toss and replace with a fresh supply.

Reviving Hardened Baking Soda

To revive baking soda that has hardened into clumps and lost efficacy:

1. Break up the clumps into a fine powder.
2. Spread powder evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Heat at 300F for 1 hour to drive off moisture.
4. Allow to fully cool before transferring to an airtight container.

Revived baking soda regains its leavening power. Use within a few weeks and replace if clumping recurs.

Safety and Side Effects

Bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by the FDA. They also have low toxicity when used appropriately.

Potential side effects can include:

• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Temporary increase in acid rebound (with antacids)

Using large amounts medicinally or increasing the frequency of use can raise the risk of complications. Always stick to standard food-based doses for cooking to stay safe.

Who Should Avoid Baking Soda?

These individuals should exercise caution with baking soda:

• Those on sodium-restricted diets - It contains sodium.
• People with high blood pressure
• Those with severe acid reflux - Can worsen rebound acidity
• People taking prescription antacids - May interact
• Those with milk allergies - May contain trace milk ingredients

Speak to your healthcare provider before using medicinally if you have specific medical conditions or concerns.

The Takeaway

Bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are different terms that refer to the exact same chemical compound sodium bicarbonate. They share identical properties, uses, substitutions, and side effects.

The main difference lies in regional terminology preferences. Baking soda is more common in the US, while those in the UK and other countries favor bicarbonate of soda.

So whether a recipe calls for bicarbonate of soda or baking soda, you can use either ingredient interchangeably and achieve the same results across cooking, baking, cleaning, personal hygiene, and household uses.

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.