Soda

• Use baking soda as a leavening agent in quick breads, cakes, cookies, and muffins. Combine it with an acidic ingredient such as vinegar or lemon juice to create carbon dioxide, which will make your baked goods rise and have a light, airy texture.
• Baking soda can tenderize meats. Marinade your tougher cuts of beef, pork, or chicken with a baking soda paste and a little water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This will help break down the proteins and result in a more tender and juicy dish.
• To deodorize your refrigerator naturally, place an open box of baking soda inside. The baking soda will absorb odors and keep your fridge smelling fresh for up to three months.
• Clean stubborn stains and grease from pots, pans, and ovens with a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste, apply it to the stained surface, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub away the grime. It's a non-toxic and effective cleaning agent.
• Reduce the acidity in tomato-based sauces and soups by adding a pinch of baking soda. This will neutralize some of the acid and create a smoother, more balanced flavor.
• Soaking dried beans in water mixed with baking soda overnight helps to soften their outer skins and reduce cooking time. This is especially beneficial for beans that have been stored for a long time and may be more difficult to cook.

• May temporarily increase alertness due to caffeine content (in some varieties).
• Can provide a quick source of simple carbohydrates for energy (though not a sustained source).
• Certain clear sodas might be helpful in small amounts for settling an upset stomach in some individuals.
• Flavored varieties can offer a brief, enjoyable taste experience.
• Some diet sodas offer a low-calorie or calorie-free alternative to regular sugary drinks.

Unopened soda cans and bottles should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Room temperature storage is generally fine. Once opened, soda should be refrigerated promptly to maintain carbonation and prevent it from going flat. Opened soda will typically last for a few days in the refrigerator, but its quality will diminish over time. Freezing soda is not recommended, as it can cause the can or bottle to burst.