This immaculate powder, which is becoming a permanent fixture in our cupboards, is more than interesting! Baking soda has infinite powers that can be used in a variety of ways. In both the kitchen and the bathroom, it becomes the go-to household product.
**Food and domestic use:**
In ancient Egypt, clever scholars quickly realised the potential of the white powder that accumulated on the surface of salt lakes during evaporation. This powder was used for washing and scrubbing. Closer to our time, in the 16th century, Montaigne praised the benefits of bathing in springs rich in bicarbonate compounds. However, it was two American bakers who developed the current recipe for refining bicarbonate, a mixture of salt, chalk and water. They were looking for a stable alternative to yeast to leaven bread and cakes. The main property of this substance is its ability to neutralise acidic substances while producing carbon dioxide. In bakeries, it is the tiny gas bubbles released by adding baking soda that make dough rise.
Today, baking soda has so many uses that it comes in different chemical formulations that should not be confused. Formulations labeled FCC are reserved for food use. Other formulations are used for household cleaning and industrial purposes.
**Why it’s so fantastic:**
Baking soda is biodegradable, non-toxic and non-flammable, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. It is a deodorant, an excellent non-abrasive powder detergent due to its fine grain and very effective as a laundry descaler. It also inhibits the growth of fungi and ensures good hygiene in the pantry. It is widely used by organic gardeners and farmers, especially to protect vines or roses.
