Baking soda is a leavening agent used in baked goods like cakes, muffins, and cookies. Formally known as sodium bicarbonate, it's a white crystalline powder that is naturally alkaline, or basic. Baking soda becomes activated when it's combined with both an acidic ingredient and a liquid. Arm&Hammer Baking Soda is a Versatile, effective, and affordable solution for over 170 years. Use for baking, cleaning, deodorizing, and more. Arm&Hammer Baking Soda has earned its place as America's #1 Trusted Baking Soda brand by helping families master nearly every household task, from cooking and cleaning to pet care and personal care. Arm & Hammer Baking Soda is a staple baking ingredient as it causes dough or batter to rise, becoming light and porous when heated.