🌿 Overview

There is growing conversation around using baking soda vs. high pH alkaline water to remove pesticides from produce.

While both methods are supported by research, they operate through different mechanisms and vary in effectiveness depending on the depth and type of pesticide residue.

This breakdown explains the science in a clear, evidence-based way.

⚡ What is High pH Alkaline Water (pH ~11.5)?

High pH alkaline water is produced through the electrolysis of water with a saline (NaCl) solution.

What happens during electrolysis:

• Water is split into two streams
• On the alkaline side:
  • Hydrogen gas (H₂) is produced
  • Hydroxide ions (OH⁻) are generated
• Sodium ions (Na⁺) from salt combine with OH⁻

Result:

• A solution that is chemically similar to a dilute sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution
• pH typically around 10.5–11.5+

🧪 The Chemistry Behind It

Key reaction:

• NaOH → Na⁺ + OH⁻

Important distinction: