what is the shelf lifeof baking soda / powder?!

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It should have a date stamped on it.

Fresh baking powder should be good for three to six months once you open the container. There should be a date stamped on the bottom of the can so you can tell if you're buying fresh baking powder in the first place. It begins to lose its ability to leaven baked foods when it comes in contact with moisture, so storing it is a dry place will increase its longevity. For the same reason, never dip a damp measuring spoon into the can. ....

Baking soda has an indefinite shelf life if stored in a sealed container in a cool dry place...

Hope this helps...

you do not use either baking soda or baking powder in bread!

and YES! if your baking powder is over a year old (since it was first opened) and has not been kept tightly sealed in freezer, then toss and get some new. It will not work correctly.

Baking soda will be good for over 2 years if kept tightly sealed in cabinet. 4 years tightly sealed in freezer.

dry yeasts, read the use by date! this is one food you must watch the date on. It goes flat and stale and won't work past that date.

The date on the packaging is there for a reason. Use it as a guide.
Dates include:
Sell by
Best before
Use by
Coded dates

If the date is a 'use by' date, then stick to it.
With the other dates you have a little bit of flexibility.
I suggest that you research each individual food on the internet.

With the baking powder, try adding it to hot water. Does it still fizz? If it does, then try it in the recipe. If not, throw it out.

http://www.getselfsufficient.org/blog/

yes it can! if it is still in it original container, the expiration date should be on the bottom or some where on the container. they actually have a rather long shelf life.

you can tell if it is active (good) by placing a teaspoon of baking powder in boiling hot water, if it fizzes it's good. the same for baking soda

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