Which one of the following statements regarding baking powder is NOT correct ?

Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent that is fundamentally a mixture of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and a mild edible acid, such as tartaric acid or cream of tartar [2]. Therefore, the statement that it does not contain sodium bicarbonate is incorrect, as sodium bicarbonate is its primary active ingredient. As a mixture, it often includes starch to prevent clumping. When mixed with water or a wet batter, the acid and base react to form carbon dioxide bubbles, which cause the dough to rise [2]. While yeast is a biological leavener that requires fermentation time, baking powder acts as a chemical substitute for leavening 'quick breads' and cakes, providing a similar airy texture without the long wait.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Acids, Bases and Salts > Uses of Baking soda > p. 31
2. [2] Science-Class VII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 5: Changes Around Us: Physical and Chemical > Activity 5.4: Let us experiment > p. 61