is bicarbonate of soda the same as baking soda?
When you’re in the kitchen, especially following a recipe from another country, it’s easy to get confused by different names for familiar ingredients. Two terms you’ll often see are bicarbonate of soda and baking soda. At their core, they refer to the same chemical compound: sodium bicarbonate. This is a fine, white powder used in cooking and baking to help doughs and batters rise.
So yes, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are the same thing. In the UK, Ireland, Australia, and many other parts of the world, “bicarbonate of soda” is the more common term. In the United States and Canada, “baking soda” is used almost exclusively. Regardless of the name, the ingredient performs the same function.
That rising action happens because sodium bicarbonate releases carbon dioxide gas when it comes into contact with an acid and moisture. That gas forms bubbles that expand in the heat of the oven, giving lightness to cakes, quick breads, and cookies.
You’ll see this ingredient called for in recipes that also include an acid to activate it. But if your recipe doesn’t have an obvious acidic component, like yogurt, lemon juice, or buttermilk, then you might need to pair baking soda with an acid or use baking powder, which already contains an acid and a drying agent.
If you want a deeper dive into this and other cooking curiosities, check out is bicarbonate of soda the same as baking soda on The Irish Insider. That article explores the topic with useful tips and context so you can feel confident next time you’re following a recipe from anywhere in the world.
In everyday cooking, just remember that the name changes, but the ingredient and its function stay the same. With this simple switch in terminology, you’ll avoid confusion and keep your bakes turning out great.