Lena Savoie
A viral trend on TikTok claims to remove the taste of alcohol by adding a bit of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and some water to a glass of liquor. The hack, which has garnered over 16 million views, suggests that the combination dilutes the flavor of alcohol, making it too easy to drink. While some people have tried and been shocked by the results, experts warn that it may not be safe and could lead to overconsumption. The mixture of baking soda, salt, and sparkling water essentially creates club soda, which is commonly mixed with hard liquor. Scientists have yet to specifically research baking soda's effects on alcohol, but one drinks scientist speculates that the basic pH of baking soda could mask the bitterness of alcohol.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Baking soda, salt, and sparkling water |
| Mixture | Also known as club soda |
| Effect | Neutralizes the taste of clear alcohol |
| Taste | May have a soapy taste |
| Safety | Could lead to overconsumption of alcohol |
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What You'll Learn
The ingredients of club soda
A recent trend on TikTok claims that adding baking soda and salt to alcoholic beverages can dilute their flavour and make them easier to drink. While some people have tried and been shocked by the results, drinks scientists are unsure whether the trend is backed by science.
Club soda, on the other hand, is a well-known mixer in cocktails and mocktails. It is a form of carbonated water with added mineral compounds, usually in the form of potassium or sodium. The original trademarked club soda was made by Cantrell & Cochrane of Dublin, Ireland, in 1877, and the 'club' refers to the Kildare Street Club in Dublin, which commissioned them to produce it.
Club soda differs from soda water in its mineral content. While soda water includes sodium bicarbonate, club soda contains potassium bicarbonate, which gives it a subtle salty undertone. This salty taste is caused by the addition of minerals such as potassium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate. The carbonation provides a refreshing fizziness, making club soda a versatile ingredient in various mixed drinks such as whiskey sodas and gin fizzes.
Club soda is also used in cooking and baking and is considered a healthier alternative to sugary sodas as it is calorie-free and hydrating. Its mineral content is said to aid digestion and help settle upset stomachs. Some popular brands of club soda include Fever-Tree Premium, Q Mixers Club Soda, Canada Dry, and Schweppes.
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The dangers of the trend
A trend on TikTok claims to neutralise the taste of alcohol by adding a bit of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and some water to a glass of liquor. The hack has gone viral, with some videos garnering over 16 million views. While the science behind the trend is questionable, it does pose certain dangers.
Firstly, the trend may encourage overconsumption of alcohol. By masking the taste and "burn" of alcohol, individuals may be more inclined to drink more than they normally would, leading to potential health risks such as alcohol poisoning, impaired judgment, and increased risk of accidents or injuries. This is especially concerning for underage individuals who may have access to alcohol and could be influenced by such trends on social media.
Secondly, the combination of baking soda and salt can alter the pH balance in the body, leading to potential health issues. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline and can raise the pH level in the body. While a small amount is generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to an upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhoea. Additionally, for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications, altering the body's pH balance can be dangerous.
Thirdly, the trend may promote the normalisation of dangerous behaviour. As seen in the comments on the original TikTok post, some individuals suggested using the trick on someone else, which could potentially lead to unintentional or intentional spiking of drinks. This raises serious concerns about the potential misuse of the trend and the risk of alcohol being consumed unknowingly or against someone's will.
Lastly, the trend may also encourage a culture of excessive drinking and peer pressure. With the hack being widely shared and discussed on social media, there is a risk that individuals, especially younger audiences, may feel pressured to engage in similar behaviours to fit in with their peers. This can lead to a dangerous normalization of excessive alcohol consumption and potentially increase the risk of developing unhealthy relationships with alcohol.
While the trend of using baking soda and salt to remove the taste of alcohol may seem intriguing, it is important to approach it with caution and be aware of the potential dangers associated with it. It is crucial to prioritise health and safety, and if individuals choose to consume alcohol, it is important to do so responsibly and in moderation.
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The science behind it
A viral trend on TikTok claims to remove the taste of alcohol by adding a bit of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and some water to vodka or tequila. The hack claims to neutralize the taste of clear alcohol, making mixed drinks easier to drink. However, there is limited scientific evidence backing up this trend.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is often used to mask the flavour of some bitter drugs. Its basic pH could potentially mask the bitterness of alcohol. Salt has also been historically used in a similar way. Drinks scientist Dave Arnold speculates that the salt in the mixture may act as a flavour enhancer and also to mutate the flavour. The baking soda, on the other hand, may make the drink feel more slippery on the tongue.
However, it is important to note that this trend may promote overconsumption of alcohol by making it easier to drink. As Arnold points out, the best way to make a cocktail less harsh is to simply make a better cocktail. Furthermore, the combination of ingredients may give the drink an unpleasant soapy taste.
While the trend may have some basis in the flavour-masking properties of baking soda and salt, it is important to approach this trend with caution and moderation to avoid potential health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
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The taste of baking soda
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a base that produces negative hydroxide ions when dissolved in water. Bases generally have a bitter taste and a slippery texture. They may also have other tastes depending on the other components of the molecule. Baking soda has a slightly salty, alkaline taste resembling that of washing soda. Some people describe it as having a "chemical burn" taste, while others find it oddly crave-able. It can be added to food and drinks to make them more palatable, but it can also be dangerous if consumed in large quantities.
A recent trend on TikTok claims that adding baking soda to alcohol can reduce its flavour and make it easier to drink. While some people have tried this hack and claimed that it works, drinks scientist Dave Arnold is sceptical. He suggests that the baking soda may simply be covering up the taste of the alcohol with its own unpleasant flavour. Arnold also warns that this hack could promote overconsumption of alcohol, which could be dangerous.
Despite the potential risks, the baking soda and alcohol trend has gone viral on TikTok, with people claiming that adding a bit of baking soda and a pinch of salt to their drinks neutralises the taste of clear alcohol. Some people have even reported being shocked by how well it works. However, it's important to note that just because something is popular on social media doesn't mean it's safe or effective.
While the science behind the trend is unclear, some people speculate that the basic pH of baking soda may be effective at masking the bitterness of alcohol. Additionally, salt has been historically used to alter the flavour of foods and drinks. However, it's worth noting that the combination of baking soda and salt can give cocktails a soapy taste and a slippery mouthfeel.
Overall, while the baking soda and alcohol trend may have some basis in science, it's important to approach it with caution. As Arnold points out, there are safer and more effective ways to improve the taste of a cocktail than adding potentially dangerous ingredients like baking soda.
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The mouthfeel of the cocktail
A trend has emerged on TikTok, claiming that adding a bit of baking soda and a pinch of salt to alcohol can reduce its flavour and burn. This combination, along with sparkling water, forms the ingredients of club soda, a common mix-in for hard liquor.
Drinks scientist Dave Arnold is unsure if this trend is backed by science. He speculates that the horrible taste of baking soda, coupled with the salt, may reduce the perception of alcohol. Arnold also believes that the addition of baking soda would alter the mouthfeel of a cocktail, making it feel more slippery on the tongue.
The trend has sparked concerns about overconsumption, as it may encourage people to drink more than they usually would. Arnold suggests that instead of trying to mask the taste of alcohol, it is better to opt for a better cocktail or a different drink altogether.
While the science behind this trend remains uncertain, it highlights the innovative, and sometimes controversial, nature of content on social media platforms like TikTok. It also underscores the importance of consuming alcohol responsibly and being cautious of trends that may promote excessive drinking.
The "slipperiness" described by Arnold could be attributed to the alkaline nature of baking soda, which may react with the acids in cocktails, changing their texture and mouthfeel. This sensation could be why some people perceive the cocktail as tasting "less alcoholic," as the altered mouthfeel may trick the palate. However, the addition of salt, which is commonly used to enhance flavours, may also play a role in altering the overall taste experience.
In conclusion, while the baking soda and salt trend may slightly alter the mouthfeel and taste of a cocktail, it is not a recommended practice due to safety concerns and the potential for overconsumption. As Arnold suggests, the best way to avoid the burn of alcohol is to choose cocktails that suit one's palate or explore other drink options.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, according to a viral trend on TikTok, adding a pinch of salt and baking soda to alcohol can dilute its flavour.
TikTok user @chixy posted a video demonstrating this hack, which has garnered over 16 million views.
This trend has been tried and tested with clear liquors such as vodka and tequila.
The alkaline nature of baking soda may mask the bitterness of alcohol. Salt is also known to be a flavour enhancer and may alter the flavour profile of the alcohol.
While this trend may be effective, it is considered potentially dangerous as it promotes the overconsumption of alcohol.
