Sodium Bicarbonate Sodium bicarbonate is an inorganic salt produced by Solvay process or from natural trona ore, acting as a weak base that releases CO2 upon heating or reaction with acids for leavening and pH control. In the food industry, it serves as a primary leavening agent in baked goods, acidity neutralizer in beverages, and dough conditioner enhancing texture without residual taste at proper usage levels.