Does baking soda expire?!
Does baking soda expire?
Answers:
"Expire"? Well, not exactly. Baking soda ( sodium bicarbonate) , like salt (sodium chloride) can lose some of its potency over a period of time, especially if exposed to air.
Sodium bicarbonate is stable for a significant period of time unless exposed to heat or air. When issued in a form for over-the-counter drug use (as an antacid), it usually has a required expiration date of more than a year. When a box of baking soda is left in a refrigerator to help remove food odors, it is recommended that it be replaced in a few months, as it does become less able to absorb the odors. When used in cooking as a baking soda, it probably is potent and stable for a considerable period of time. It is effective in cleaning and laundry use for extended periods of time, unless exposed to air and moisture in a laundry area.
No, it's an an-organic material, like water or carbon dioxide. Just take care to keep it dry.
yes. if not kept properly, baking soda will absorb moisture from surrounding air and clump up. i suppose it can get mouldy, too.
Absolutely. Check the date on the package.
yes
If kept in a tightly covered container in a cool dark place,the shelf life is supposed to be indefinite,while baking powder which is basically baking soda (sodium bi carbonate ),with the addition of an acidic ingredient,usually cream of tartar & corn starch,has to be replaced within a year.