Double Acting Baking Powder

Double-acting baking powder is a chemical leavening agent used in baking. It contains an acid and a base, typically sodium bicarbonate, and two different leavening acids that react at different times. One acid reacts with moisture at room temperature, and the other reacts with heat when baked, producing carbon dioxide gas that makes baked goods rise.

Manufacturers add double-acting baking powder to provide leavening, making cakes, cookies, muffins, and pastries light and fluffy. Its dual-action formula ensures a good rise both when the batter is mixed and during baking, leading to a more consistent texture in a variety of baked goods.

Double-acting baking powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. The ingredients are common food substances. JECFA has evaluated some components and established acceptable daily intakes. At typical consumption levels found in baked goods, it is not associated with adverse health effects.