What are the side effects of baking powder overdose. How to recognize the symptoms of baking powder poisoning. What immediate actions should be taken in case of baking powder ingestion. How to prevent accidental baking powder overdose at home.

Understanding Baking Powder and Its Components

Baking powder is a common kitchen ingredient used to help batter rise during cooking. While it’s generally considered safe for culinary use, consuming large amounts can lead to serious health issues. To fully grasp the potential dangers, it’s crucial to understand its composition.

What’s in Baking Powder?

Baking powder typically contains three main ingredients:

• Sodium bicarbonate (also known as baking soda)
• An acid component (often cream of tartar)
• A moisture-absorbing agent (usually cornstarch)

The combination of these ingredients creates a chemical reaction when exposed to liquid and heat, producing carbon dioxide gas that causes baked goods to rise.

Recognizing Baking Powder Overdose Symptoms

Ingesting excessive amounts of baking powder can lead to a range of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for prompt treatment.

Common Symptoms of Baking Powder Overdose

The following symptoms may indicate a baking powder overdose:

• Intense thirst
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Severe vomiting
• Severe diarrhea

Is excessive thirst always a sign of baking powder overdose? While intense thirst is a common symptom, it can also be caused by other conditions. If thirst is accompanied by other symptoms listed above, especially after known ingestion of baking powder, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Immediate Actions for Suspected Baking Powder Poisoning

If you suspect someone has ingested a large amount of baking powder, quick action is essential. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Seek medical help immediately
2. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional
3. If the person is alert and can swallow, offer water or milk (unless advised otherwise)
4. Gather information about the incident (amount ingested, time of ingestion, etc.)

Should you try to neutralize baking powder with an acidic substance? It’s crucial not to attempt any home remedies or chemical neutralization without professional medical advice. Such actions could potentially worsen the situation.

The Role of Poison Control Centers

Poison control centers play a vital role in managing cases of baking powder overdose and other poisoning incidents. These centers offer immediate, expert advice and can guide you through emergency situations.

Contacting Poison Control

In the United States, you can reach your local poison control center by calling the national Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This service is:

• Free of charge
• Confidential
• Available 24/7
• Staffed by toxicology experts

Can poison control centers handle non-emergency inquiries? Yes, these centers are equipped to handle both emergency situations and general questions about poisoning and poison prevention. You don’t need to wait for an emergency to call.

Medical Treatment for Baking Powder Overdose

When a person arrives at a medical facility with suspected baking powder poisoning, healthcare professionals will initiate a series of treatments aimed at minimizing harm and stabilizing the patient.

Potential Treatment Approaches

Treatment may include:

• Intravenous fluids to combat dehydration
• Medications to control nausea and vomiting
• Electrolyte monitoring and replacement if necessary
• Gastric lavage in severe cases
• Activated charcoal administration (in some situations)

How long does recovery from baking powder overdose typically take? Recovery time can vary depending on the amount ingested and the individual’s overall health. Most people recover fully within 24 to 48 hours with proper treatment, but severe cases may require longer hospitalization.

Prevention Strategies for Baking Powder Accidents

While baking powder is generally safe when used as intended, accidental ingestion or misuse can occur. Implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of overdose incidents.

Safety Tips for Households

Consider the following precautions:

• Store baking powder in a secure, clearly labeled container
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets
• Avoid storing baking powder near similar-looking substances
• Educate family members about the potential dangers of ingesting large amounts
• Use proper measuring tools when baking to avoid accidental overdoses in food

Are child-resistant containers effective in preventing baking powder accidents? While child-resistant packaging can be helpful, it’s not foolproof. Always combine such packaging with proper storage and supervision, especially in households with young children.

Long-term Health Impacts of Baking Powder Misuse

While most cases of baking powder overdose resolve without lasting effects, chronic misuse or repeated incidents can potentially lead to more serious health complications.

Potential Long-term Consequences

Repeated exposure to large amounts of baking powder may result in:

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Kidney problems
• Metabolic alkalosis

Can regular consumption of small excess amounts of baking powder be harmful? While occasional, slight overconsumption is unlikely to cause significant issues, regularly ingesting more than the recommended amount in recipes could potentially lead to health problems over time. It’s always best to follow recipes precisely and avoid using baking powder as a dietary supplement or remedy.

Baking Powder Allergies and Sensitivities

While true allergies to baking powder are rare, some individuals may experience sensitivities or adverse reactions to its components. Understanding these potential issues can help prevent unexpected health problems.

Recognizing Baking Powder Sensitivities

Symptoms of a sensitivity or mild allergic reaction may include:

• Skin rashes or hives
• Itching or tingling in the mouth
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
• Headaches

How can you determine if you have a baking powder sensitivity? If you consistently experience unusual symptoms after consuming foods containing baking powder, consider keeping a food diary and consulting with an allergist or healthcare provider. They may recommend an elimination diet or allergy testing to pinpoint the cause.

Alternatives for Baking Powder Sensitivities

For those with confirmed sensitivities, alternatives to traditional baking powder include:

• Homemade baking powder using cream of tartar and baking soda
• Egg whites (as a leavening agent in some recipes)
• Self-rising flour (which already contains leavening agents)
• Commercial baking powder alternatives made without common allergens

Experimenting with these alternatives can help individuals with sensitivities continue to enjoy baked goods without risking adverse reactions.

The Science Behind Baking Powder’s Effects on the Body

Understanding the biochemical interactions between baking powder and the human body can provide insight into why overdoses can be dangerous and how they affect various physiological systems.

pH Balance and Electrolyte Disruption

Baking powder’s primary component, sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline. When consumed in large quantities, it can:

• Alter the body’s pH balance, potentially leading to metabolic alkalosis
• Disrupt normal electrolyte levels, particularly sodium and potassium
• Affect the body’s acid-base homeostasis

Why does baking powder cause gastrointestinal distress? The rapid production of carbon dioxide gas in the stomach, combined with the alkaline nature of sodium bicarbonate, can lead to bloating, pain, and severe digestive upset. Additionally, the osmotic effect of the powder can draw water into the intestines, contributing to diarrhea.

Cellular and Systemic Impacts

At a cellular level, baking powder overdose can lead to:

• Altered cellular function due to pH changes
• Disrupted enzyme activity
• Potential damage to the gastric and intestinal lining

These effects underscore the importance of proper use and storage of baking powder, as well as prompt medical attention in cases of suspected overdose.

Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Baking Powder

While baking powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies, its production, labeling, and sale are still subject to various regulations to ensure consumer safety.

Regulatory Oversight

In the United States, baking powder is regulated by:

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

These regulations cover aspects such as:

• Ingredient standards
• Manufacturing practices
• Labeling requirements
• Allergen declarations

Are there legal restrictions on purchasing large quantities of baking powder? Generally, there are no specific legal restrictions on purchasing baking powder in bulk. However, unusually large purchases may be flagged by retailers or law enforcement due to the potential use of baking powder components in illegal drug manufacturing.

Product Liability Considerations

Manufacturers and retailers of baking powder have certain legal responsibilities, including:

• Ensuring product safety for intended use
• Providing clear usage instructions and warnings
• Maintaining quality control in production

In cases of injury due to product defects or inadequate warnings, consumers may have grounds for product liability claims.

Baking Powder in Different Cultural Contexts

The use and perception of baking powder can vary significantly across different cultures and cuisines, influencing both its culinary applications and potential risks.

Global Variations in Baking Powder Use

Different regions may have unique approaches to baking powder:

• In some Asian cuisines, baking powder is less commonly used, with alternatives like rice flour or egg whites preferred for leavening
• European baking traditions often rely more heavily on yeast-based leavening
• North American recipes frequently incorporate baking powder, especially in quick breads and cakes

How do cultural differences affect the risk of baking powder overdose? Cultural familiarity with baking powder can influence usage patterns and awareness of potential risks. In regions where it’s less commonly used, there may be a higher risk of misuse due to unfamiliarity with proper handling and dosage.

Traditional Medicine and Baking Powder

In some cultures, baking powder or its components have been used in traditional medicine practices:

• As an antacid for indigestion
• For treating minor skin irritations
• As a home remedy for various ailments

It’s important to note that these traditional uses are not scientifically validated and can potentially be dangerous if misapplied. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any substance for medicinal purposes.

Environmental Impact of Baking Powder Production and Disposal

While baking powder is a household staple, its production and disposal can have environmental implications that are often overlooked.

Production Considerations

The manufacturing of baking powder involves several environmental factors:

• Energy consumption in production facilities
• Carbon footprint associated with transportation of raw materials and finished products
• Potential chemical runoff from manufacturing processes

Are there eco-friendly alternatives to traditional baking powder? Some companies are exploring more sustainable production methods, including using renewable energy sources and optimizing transportation logistics. Additionally, natural leavening agents like sourdough cultures offer an environmentally friendly alternative for some baking applications.

Disposal and Recycling

Proper disposal of baking powder and its packaging is important for environmental protection:

• Empty containers can often be recycled, depending on local recycling capabilities
• Unused baking powder can be safely disposed of in small quantities through regular waste channels
• Large amounts should be handled according to local hazardous waste guidelines

Encouraging responsible consumption and disposal practices can help mitigate the environmental impact of baking powder use.

Future Trends in Baking Powder Technology and Safety

As food science and technology advance, we can expect to see innovations in baking powder formulations and safety measures.

Emerging Technologies

Potential future developments in baking powder technology include:

• Smart packaging with clear expiration indicators
• Nanotechnology applications for improved efficacy and safety
• Bioengineered alternatives with enhanced nutritional profiles

Could future baking powders be designed to be less harmful if accidentally ingested in large quantities? Research into safer formulations is ongoing, with some scientists exploring natural compounds that could provide leavening action with reduced health risks in case of accidental overconsumption.

Enhanced Safety Measures

Future safety improvements may include:

• Advanced child-resistant packaging designs
• Integration of QR codes for instant access to safety information and poison control resources
• Development of rapid home test kits for identifying baking powder contamination in food

These advancements could significantly reduce the incidence of accidental baking powder overdoses and improve outcomes in cases of exposure.

Baking powder overdose Information | Mount Sinai

Sodium bicarbonate

Baking powder is a cooking product that helps batter rise. This article discusses the effects of swallowing a large amount of baking powder. Baking powder is considered nontoxic when it is used in cooking and baking. However, serious complications can occur from overdoses or allergic reactions.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual overdose. If you have an overdose, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient

Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate (also found in baking soda) and an acid (such as cream of tartar). It may also contain cornstarch or a similar product to keep it from clumping.

Where Found

The above ingredients are used in baking powder. They may also be found in other products.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a baking powder overdose include:

• Thirst
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting (severe)
• Diarrhea (severe)

Home Care

Seek medical help right away. DO NOT make a person throw up unless poison control or a health care provider tells you to do so.

If the person can swallow, give them water or milk right away, unless a provider tells you not to. DO NOT give water or milk if the person has symptoms that make it hard to swallow. These include vomiting, having convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness.

Before Calling Emergency

Have this information ready:

• The person’s age, weight, and condition
• The name of the product
• The time it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed

Poison Control

Your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

The provider will measure and monitor the person’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The person may receive:

• Blood and urine tests
• ECG (electrocardiogram or heart rhythm tracing)
• Intravenous fluids (through a vein)
• Medicines to treat symptoms

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome of a baking powder overdose depends on many factors, including:

• Amount of baking powder swallowed
• Person’s age, weight, and overall health
• Type of complications that develop

If nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are not controlled, serious dehydration and body chemical and mineral (electrolyte) imbalances may occur. These can cause heart rhythm disturbances.

Keep all household food items in their original containers and out of the reach of children. Any white powder may look like sugar to a child. This mix up could lead to accidental ingestion.

Thomas SHL. Poisoning. In: Ralston SH, Penman ID, Strachan MWJ, Hobson RP, eds. Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 7.

Last reviewed on: 5/17/2021

Reviewed by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Drinking baking soda: Dangers, benefits, and more

Some people drink baking soda for indigestion and other purposes, but drinking baking soda can be dangerous and is not suitable for long-term use, use during pregnancy, or use in children.

This information comes from the Canadian Society of Intestinal Research.

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a popular substance with a wide variety of uses. For indigestion, a person can purchase it as a powder and mix it into water.

Some people claim that drinking baking soda is generally beneficial for health. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this.

This article explores the dangers of drinking baking soda, as well as its potential benefits.

Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can neutralize excess stomach acid. In small amounts, it provides temporary relief from indigestion and works in a similar way to over-the-counter (OTC) indigestion remedies.

However, using large amounts of baking soda as a home remedy has some risks, including:

Poisoning

When using it in its powder form, it can be easy for a person to take too much baking soda. This can cause adverse effects, such as digestive discomfort.

In too large a dose, baking soda is also poisonous. This is due to the powder’s high sodium content.

When someone takes too much sodium bicarbonate, the body tries to correct the balance of salt by drawing water into the digestive system. This causes diarrhea and vomiting.

If the body absorbs the sodium, it can cause:

• dehydration
• seizures
• kidney failure
• slow, shallow breathing

If a person has taken a large amount of baking soda and is experiencing any symptoms of poisoning, someone needs to call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.

Ruptured stomach

In addition to poisoning, taking large amounts of baking soda can also rupture the stomach.

When baking soda mixes with an acid, a chemical reaction takes place. A byproduct of this reaction is the release of gas.

The National Capital Poison Center (NCPC) warn that if a person consumes too much baking soda at once, a large amount of gas may accumulate in the stomach, causing it to rupture. This is more likely after a person has consumed a large amount of food or alcohol.

Toxicity in children

A parent or caregiver should not give baking soda or any medications containing sodium bicarbonate to a child.

If a parent or caregiver finds a child consuming baking soda, the Missouri Poison Center recommend:

• remaining calm
• wiping any excess baking soda from the mouth with a soft, wet cloth
• removing as much as possible from the inside of the mouth
• giving the child water to drink
• contacting the local poison control center

If a parent or caregiver is not sure if a child has swallowed any baking soda, they can look for early symptoms of an overdose, such as diarrhea and vomiting.

Interference with medications

The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research say that baking soda can affect how the body absorbs medications. Depending on the medication a person takes, this could cause a wide range of adverse effects.

Adults who are not pregnant can mix about half a teaspoon (tsp) of baking soda with at least half a cup of water to relieve temporary indigestion.

However, the NCPC recommend using OTC indigestion products, such as Tums, rather than making at-home remedies. This lowers the risk of overdosing.

When it is not possible to purchase an OTC product, using baking soda is a potential short-term alternative. However, it is important to speak with a doctor before trying this.

People who are pregnant, who take other medications, or who have underlying health conditions should talk with a doctor before taking even a small dose of baking soda.

People should not use sodium bicarbonate for longer than 2 weeks at a time. If their symptoms persist for longer than this, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical treatment.

Baking soda contains sodium, which, in high amounts, can affect the heart.

One 2016 case study notes that overdosing on baking soda has caused heart arrhythmias for some individuals.

There have also been cases of baking soda overdoses causing cardiac arrest. This occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood, which can be fatal.

However, although scientists know that taking too much baking soda is harmful for the cardiovascular system, it is unclear whether or not it raises the risk of a heart attack.

People with cardiovascular disease and those who need to avoid salt for medical reasons should avoid using baking soda or sodium bicarbonate.

Baking soda, as well as OTC antacids, can temporarily relieve the symptoms of stomach ulcers. However, antacids are not a cure for stomach ulcers.

This is because stomach ulcers are most often a result of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, or Helicobacter pylori, which is a type of bacteria.

For ulcers due to NSAID use, people may need to lower or stop NSAID use. For ulcers due to H. pylori, a person may require antibiotics.

Antacids, including baking soda, can prevent antibiotics from working. While a person receives ulcer treatment, a doctor can prescribe other drugs — such as proton pump inhibitors — to reduce stomach ulcer symptoms and allow the ulcer to heal.

The primary benefit of drinking baking soda is for the temporary relief of indigestion or heartburn. There is also evidence to suggest that it may reduce muscle fatigue during athletic training.

One 2020 meta-analysis found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation does improve muscle endurance but not muscle strength. This was true for participants who took sodium bicarbonate in both resting and fatigued states.

A randomized, double-blind study from 2017 also found evidence to suggest that sodium bicarbonate improved performance among trained runners. However, the study was small, and almost all the participants were male.

People should not use sodium bicarbonate for fitness or health purposes without the supervision of a doctor.

Occasionally drinking baking soda to help with indigestion or heartburn can be a safe home remedy for some adults.

However, this is not safe during pregnancy, in children, or over long periods of time. It also cannot treat conditions that cause heartburn, such as stomach ulcers.

In general, it is best to use OTC indigestion remedies, as there is a lower risk of overdose. When this is not possible, however, a person can mix half a tsp of baking soda into at least half a cup of water. That said, they should be sure to discuss this with a doctor first.

If a person takes too much baking soda, someone needs to call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.

Why you need baking powder – Fur coat

Recipe

931

Nutritional value per 100 g

kcal per 100 g

53

Carbohydrates It is a mixture of a carbonate or bicarbonate and a weak acid. Essentially, it’s mixing baking soda and acid. But commercial baking powder works faster than if you add citric acid or vinegar mixed with baking soda to your dishes. The base and acid prevent premature reaction due to cornstarch. Baking powder is used to increase volume and lighten the consistency of baked goods. The baking powder releases carbon dioxide into the dough through an acid-base reaction, causing the bubbles in the wet mixture to expand and thin the mixture. The first single-use baking powder was developed by food manufacturer Alfred Bird in England in 1843. The first double acting baking powder, releasing some carbon dioxide during moistening and later releasing more gas when heated in baking, was first developed by Eben Norton Horsford in the USA in the 1860s.

Benefits of baking powder

Baking powder contains no proteins or fats, it is almost pure carbohydrate. It contains several vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which support healthy bones, nails, and teeth. There are no studies on the benefits of baking powder, but there are some potential benefits associated with baking soda. It can help with kidney disease. Researchers have found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation improves muscle endurance in both small and large muscle groups. In addition, baking soda will help clean fruits and vegetables from pesticides. Side effects of baking powder overdose include thirst, abdominal pain, nausea, severe vomiting, and diarrhea. If a person has overdosed on baking powder, seek immediate medical attention. Baking powder contains a lot of sodium, one teaspoon contains more than 10% of the daily value. If you have high blood pressure, check with your doctor about using baking powder.

What is the energy value of baking powder

100 grams of baking powder contains:

• Calories (cal) 53
• Fat 0 g
• 0 g
• Cholesterol 0 mg
• Sodium 10600 mg
• Potassium 20 mg
• Carbohydrates 28 g
• Dietary fiber 0.2 g
• Sugar 0 g
• Protein 0 g

What to cook with baking powder

900 03 Baking powder is added to dishes that do not use yeast. Cook pies, rolls, mannas, cookies, cakes, muffins, muffins, pancakes and biscuits with it. Of course, you can replace the commercial baking powder with a mixture of baking soda and an acid (like vinegar or citric acid), but if the recipe calls for baking powder, don’t ignore it.

When to buy baking powder

Baking powder is available in stores throughout the year.

Nutrition and Health Benefits – Drink-Drink

Contents

• Baking Powder Nutrition Facts
  • Baking Powder Nutrition Facts
  • Carbohydrates
  • Fat
  • Protein
  • Vitamins and minerals
• Health benefits Health
  • May improve kidney function
  • May promote oral health
  • May increase exercise performance
  • May activate anti-inflammatory pathways
  • Cleanses fruits and vegetables
• Allergies
• Side effects

900 42 Food storage and safety

• Recipes
  • Health baking powder recipes Worth Trying

Baking powder is a type of chemical starter, meaning that it releases gas during the cooking process to raise the baked goods. Made from sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and acid, baking powder only requires moisture for the chemical reaction. In baked goods that do not require yeast, such as cakes, muffins, and quick breads, baking soda plays a role in creating a light and crumbly texture.

Most baking soda sold in stores is called “double action”, indicating a two-step process. The first reaction occurs when the baking powder dissolves into the liquid, forming a batter. The second reaction occurs during the heating process. Both reactions contribute to a light and flexible baked product.

Baking Powder Nutrition Facts

The following nutritional information is provided by the USDA for 1 teaspoon (4.6 g) of Dual Action Baking Powder.

Baking Powder Nutrition Facts

• Calories : 2.4
• Fat : 0g
• Sodium : 363 mg
• carbohydrates : 1.1g
• fiber : 0g
• Sugars : 0g
• Protein : 0g

Carbohydrates

Baking powder contains 2. 4 calories and just over 1 gram of carbohydrates in one teaspoon. Carbohydrates come from natural starch in baking powder.

Fats

There is no fat in the baking powder.

Protein

Baking powder does not contain protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Baking powder contains several vitamins and minerals. One teaspoon of baking soda contains 339 mg of calcium (about 33% of the Daily Value) and 456 mg of phosphorus (about 60% of the Daily Value). Both calcium and phosphorus play an important role in maintaining healthy bones, nails, and teeth.

Health Benefits

No studies on the benefits of baking powder, but there are some potential benefits associated with baking soda. The baking powder contains baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and acid. Although these results were not obtained directly from baking powder, some assumptions can be made based on the study of baking soda.

May improve kidney function

Sodium bicarbonate has been studied for its role in maintaining kidney function in people with chronic kidney disease. In a pilot study in 194 people with chronic kidney disease, the effects of taking two additional doses of sodium bicarbonate for 28 weeks were observed.

Results showed a decrease in urinary ammonium excretion, a marker of kidney disease. The authors of the study concluded that studying the effect of sodium bicarbonate on chronic kidney disease requires further research.

May promote oral health

Because of its alkaline nature, sodium bicarbonate has many uses in dentistry. Because it neutralizes the acid in the mouth, its role in preventing caries and tooth erosion on the enamel surface has been studied. It is also a powerful denture cleanser that can even prevent bad breath.

May improve exercise performance

Several studies have observed the effects of sodium bicarbonate on physical performance with mixed results. A review of thirteen studies examined the effects of sodium bicarbonate on muscle endurance and muscle strength.

Researchers have found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation improves muscle endurance in both small and large muscle groups. However, the addition of sodium bicarbonate did not appear to affect muscle strength. Clearly, more research is needed on this topic.

May activate anti-inflammatory pathways

A small animal study examined the role of a baking soda drink in stimulating anti-inflammatory cells in the body. The authors of the study believe that eating baking soda causes the spleen, part of the immune system, to switch from producing inflammatory cells to being anti-inflammatory. The authors of the study believe it may play a role in regulating autoimmune diseases, but more human studies are needed.

Cleanses fruits and vegetables

One study examined the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate in removing pesticide residue from apples. A study found that rinsing with sodium bicarbonate removed some of the pesticide residue from the apple peel, but not those found deeper in the fruit. However, the USDA recommends washing fresh fruits and vegetables only under cold running water.