Sodium Bicarbonate Day is celebrated every year on December 30. The day is dedicated to all uses of bicarbonate of soda. This day celebrates a basic ingredient for every process and, as a special phase, for every kitchen. Bicarbonate of soda is also generally referred to as bread, cooking, and baking soda. These names correspond with its biochemical and constituent compound that is NaHCO3, commonly known as sodium bicarbonate. Bicarbonate of soda, it may be noted, is the most commonly used chemical compound after water owing to its various practical and useful applications.
History of Sodium Bicarbonate Day
Sodium bicarbonate commonly called baking soda, is a white fine powdery substance, flavorful slowly like salt and the taste is alkaline like alkaline water. This substance started to be used around the early civilization of Ancient Egypt. The ancient Egyptians used a product called Natron which is mainly composed of Sodium bicarbonate in 3000 B.C.
In 1791, a French chemist, Nicolas Leblanc produced called “soda ash.” Sodium bicarbonate is popularly used as a baking soda in cooking and baking, particularly in making dough, or batter gets raised when it interacts with heat and gas.
Before the nineteenth century, people kept using yeast but it was a very slow process and in many cases, yeast did not bear extreme heat at all. This led to the use of baking soda in baking.
In 1846, the introduction of baking soda caused a revolution in baking for professional bakers and home cooks alike. Sodium bicarbonate has shown great effectiveness in cleaning beyond the kitchen.
Similarly, it also helps get rid of mold and mildew, which makes it perfect for cleaning stainless steel, kitchen appliances, and shower curtains. Baking soda has also become popular to preserve food since 1972.
In the 21st century, manufacturers began producing this chemical compound in large quantities. The yearly output reaches about two million tons.
Likewise, companies ship it across the globe selling it to businesses and everyday people to boost usefulness and productivity. Many consider baking soda a wonder substance. It has countless uses, like getting rid of bad smells, washing away pesticides, putting out fires, cleaning teeth scrubbing surfaces, and plenty more.
Timeline of Sodium Bicarbonate Day
| 1791 (Discovery of the Versatile Compound) | Nicolas Leblanc, a French chemist, makes sodium bicarbonate, also known as soda ash. |
| 1867 (Branding Moments) | The Church & Dwight company develops the “Arm and Hammer” brand with the iconic logo of baking soda. |
| 1927 (Widespread Discussions) | The compound is promoted through published articles in renowned magazines such as “Good Housekeeping” and “McCall.” |
| 1986 (Revolutionary Event) | The Statue of Liberty’s 100th birthday is celebrated through its cleaning and refurbishing of inner copper walls, which leaves the figure effectively clean. |
5 Interesting Facts About Sodium Bicarbonate
- Baking Soda: Its Common Name: Sodium bicarbonate, which people know as baking soda, is a white powder with crystals that bakers often use to make the dough rise. When it mixes with an acid, it creates carbon dioxide gas. This gas helps dough puff up and become airy.
- A Natural Stomach Soother: Sodium bicarbonate has the power to neutralize acid in the stomach. This makes it a go-to fix for heartburn and upset stomachs that you can buy without a prescription. Because it’s alkaline, it helps to balance the stomach’s pH levels giving quick help for acid discomfort.
- Cleans Many Things: Sodium bicarbonate is a favorite for cleaning homes because it’s abrasive and can get rid of smells. You can use it to clean sinks, kitchen surfaces, and even silver items. Many people also use it to freshen up fridges, rugs, and shoes.
- Environmental Benefits: Sodium bicarbonate stands out as a green option compared to many chemical cleaners. It doesn’t harm the environment, breaks down, and won’t damage septic systems. This makes it a great pick for homes that want to use natural cleaning products and care about the planet.
- Health and Personal Care Uses: Sodium bicarbonate has a role to play beyond the kitchen and cleaning tasks. You’ll find it in products like toothpaste and deodorants. It scrubs teeth to help them look whiter, and it can get rid of smells, which is why it works well in natural deodorants.
Conclusion
Sodium Bicarbonate Day is observed on the thirtieth of December in order to recognize and celebrate this compound, otherwise known as baking soda, in its various uses. From the age-old times in Egypt, through to modern uses, sodium bicarbonate has transformed many industries, especially food, hygiene, and beauty industries. Baking soda is everywhere.
Mostly, it helps neutralize acids, cleans the surfaces, and relieves the stomach. In practically every household across the globe, baking soda is extensively used to accomplish the very tasks outlined above. Due to its environmentally friendly attributes and practicality, it is a constituent of many recipes that yield positive changes in everyday life. On this date, we recognize the great benefits of sodium bicarbonate, or baking powder to most, to the kitchen, the house, and several other places.
Frequently Ask Question
Why is sodium bicarbonate important in baking?
Sodium bicarbonate is used in baking because it reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps dough rise and become airy.
How did sodium bicarbonate revolutionize baking?
Before the introduction of baking soda, people relied on yeast, which was a slow process. The introduction of baking soda in 1846 significantly sped up baking, making it easier for both professional bakers and home cooks.
What are some common uses of sodium bicarbonate?
Sodium bicarbonate is used for baking, cleaning surfaces, neutralizing stomach acid, removing odors, and putting out fires.
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