Sodium bicarbonate, with the chemical formula NaHCO₃, is a white, crystalline, odorless powder that is highly soluble in water. It is a common inorganic compound widely used across multiple industries. In the food industry, it acts as a key leavening agent in baking: when mixed with acidic ingredients (e.g., vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk), it releases carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough and batter to expand and produce light, fluffy baked goods like bread, cakes, and cookies. It also serves as a pH regulator in processed foods to maintain stable flavor and texture.

Beyond food applications, sodium bicarbonate is valued for its mild alkaline properties in household cleaning (effective for removing stains and neutralizing odors) and industrial settings (used in water treatment, fire extinguishers, and as a raw material for chemical manufacturing).