Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a white, crystalline powder used mainly in cooking and baking as a leavening agent. When mixed with acidic ingredients, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which helps dough rise and become fluffy. Beyond the kitchen, it has various uses, including as a gentle cleaning agent, a pH neutralizer in swimming pools, and a remedy for indigestion. It’s also found in some personal care products, like toothpaste. Generally recognized as safe, sodium bicarbonate is a versatile compound with many practical applications in everyday life.