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Single-acting baking powder is a leavening agent used in baking. It is a mixture of a base, typically sodium bicarbonate, and a weak acid, such as tartaric acid or cream of tartar. Diluents like starch are often included to buffer the base and acid.

Unlike double-acting baking powder, single-acting types release carbon dioxide gas at room temperature. This means that batters made with single-acting baking powder must be baked immediately to prevent the loss of leavening gas, which would result in a less aerated baked good. The reaction produces carbon dioxide and harmless salts.12

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