Quick Answer

Bicarbonate of soda and sodium bicarbonate are chemically identical compounds. The only practical difference is how they are marketed and what they are primarily intended for: one for baking, the other for body care.

Why the Names Differ

The confusion comes from labeling. Bicarbonate of soda is the common name used in recipes, while sodium bicarbonate is the chemical name. In stores, you might see the same substance sold under different names depending on the intended use.

Baking vs Body Care: The Real Distinction

The key difference is not the chemical itself, but the intended application. Bicarbonate of soda is typically sold for cooking and baking, where it reacts with acids to leaven baked goods. Sodium bicarbonate is often marketed for cosmetic use, such as in bath products or as a gentle exfoliant.

Myth vs Reality: Key Verdicts

  • Claim: They are entirely different substances: Verdict: Myth. Bicarbonate of soda and sodium bicarbonate are the same chemical compound. The only difference is the name and the intended use. When buying, focus on the intended use rather than the name.
  • Claim: You can use them interchangeably in any recipe: Verdict: Partially true. For baking, use the product labeled as bicarbonate of soda to ensure it is food-grade. For body care, use the one labeled as sodium bicarbonate for cosmetic use. Always check the label to confirm the product is suitable for your purpose.
  • Claim: Both are vegan: Verdict: True for the baking product. The catalog notes that Bicarbonate of Soda is vegan. The sodium bicarbonate product does not specify vegan status, so if that matters to you, check the label. If vegan certification is important, choose the product that explicitly states it.

Product Facts

  • Bicarbonate of Soda 1kg: Bicarbonate of Soda is an alkali used to raise soda bread and full-flavored cakes such as gingerbread, fruit cake, chocolate cake, and carrot cake. It needs an acid (as well as moisture) to activate it, so it is often combined with cream of tartar, yogurt, buttermilk, or milk. When baking, you need to pair this with an acidic ingredient to get the rise you expect.

    Bicarbonate of Soda 1kg

    Bicarbonate of Soda 1kg

  • Sodium Bicarbonate 1kg: Sodium Bicarbonate is a cosmetic body care ingredient. If you're looking for a product for personal care, choose the one labeled for body care to ensure it meets your intended use.

    Sodium Bicarbonate 1kg

    Sodium Bicarbonate 1kg