What is the difference between edible alkali and baking soda?

Many people are confused about the functions and uses of baking soda and cooking alkali in the kitchen. In fact, the two items are very different in chemical composition and use. This article will give you a detailed analysis of the difference between baking soda and edible alkali, making you more handy in the kitchen.

Baking soda chemical composition and uses

Baking soda is a common alkaline substance with the chemical name sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). It is in the form of white powder, easily soluble in water, and tastes slightly salty. Baking soda has many uses in the kitchen, here are a few common examples:

1. Remove odors: Put baking soda in the refrigerator, shoe cabinet or car, which can effectively absorb odors and make the air fresher.

2. Cleaning agent: Baking soda can be used to clean tableware, kitchen surfaces, washing machines, etc., and has a good decontamination effect.

3. Leavening agent: Baking soda can be used as a leavening agent for baking bread, biscuits, etc., 

which can improve the fermentation effect of the dough.

Chemical composition and uses of edible alkali

Edible alkali is a natural alkaline substance whose main component is sodium carbonate (Na2CO3). It is a white solid, easily soluble in water, and tastes astringent. Edible alkalis also have many uses in the kitchen. Here are a few common examples:

1. Soften meat: When stewing or roasting meat, adding an appropriate amount of edible alkali can soften the meat and make it taste more tender.

2. Remove pesticide residues: Soaking vegetables in water containing edible alkali can remove pesticide residues and make vegetables safer.

3. Increase the concentration of the soup: Adding an appropriate amount of edible alkali when making the soup can increase the concentration of the soup and make the soup richer.

The difference between baking soda and edible alkali

1. Different chemical compositions: baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), and edible alkali is sodium carbonate (Na2CO3).

2. Different uses: Baking soda is mainly used to remove odors, detergents and starters, while edible alkali is mainly used to soften meat, remove pesticide residues and increase the concentration of soup.

3. Different tastes: Baking soda tastes slightly salty, while edible alkali tastes astringent.

4. Different solubility: Baking soda is easily soluble in water, while edible alkali is also easily soluble in water, but the dissolution rate is slower than baking soda.

5. Different alkalinities: Baking soda is less alkaline, while edible alkali is more alkaline. Therefore, you should pay attention to the appropriate amount when using it in the kitchen to avoid adverse effects on the ingredients.

6. Different sources: Baking soda can be obtained through chemical synthesis or natural extraction, while edible alkali is mainly derived from natural extraction.

How to use baking soda and cooking alkali correctly

1. Baking soda: When used as a leavening agent in baking, the amount should be controlled according to the weight of the dough and the fermentation temperature; when used in detergents, it should be dissolved in warm water before use to avoid irritation to the skin; when removing odors , place baking soda in a gauze bag and place it in the area that needs to be deodorized.

2. Edible alkali: When softening meat, be careful not to use too much to avoid affecting the taste; when removing pesticide residues, rinse the surface of vegetables with clean water first, and then soak them in water containing edible alkali; when increasing the concentration of soup , add an appropriate amount of edible alkali to avoid affecting the original flavor of the soup.

Although baking soda and edible alkali are both alkaline substances, there are obvious differences in chemical composition, use, taste, solubility, alkalinity, etc. Pay attention to distinguish them when using them in the kitchen, and choose appropriate alkaline substances according to different needs. At the same time, be careful to use it in moderation to avoid adverse effects on the ingredients. I hope this article can help you better understand the differences and usage methods of baking soda and cooking alkali, making your kitchen more convenient!