An internet rumor is being spread across social media claiming stores will be carding shoppers who want to buy baking soda. The widespread rumor has been debunked by both the U.S. FDA and the nation’s most prominent baking soda manufacturer, Arm and Hammer.
A spokesperson from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently clarified the agency’s stance on the alleged restrictions on baking soda sales, indicating that regulation of such sales falls under the jurisdiction of individual states. This statement comes in response to online reports suggesting impending restrictions in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. However, investigations reveal these claims to be unfounded internet rumors.
Matt McKinney, representing The Food Industry Association (FMI), confirmed the absence of any current restrictions on baking soda sales. McKinney detailed efforts to verify the rumors, stating, “We reached out to state food industry associations in Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Texas, the states mentioned in the rumors. They confirmed the lack of ID checks at retail points and the absence of state or local laws mandating IDs for baking soda purchases.”
Further dispelling the rumors, a spokesperson from Arm & Hammer’s information line confirmed the company’s unawareness of any such limitations on baking soda sales. “We have looked into this and have not heard of this occurring from our end,” they affirmed.
The collective input from these various sources provides a clear picture: the widespread news of baking soda sale restrictions is merely an internet rumor.
But several radio stations known for click-baiting news articles are reporting this social media rumor as fact. The stories all start with, “A friend in this state said he had to show identification to buy baking soda.”
There is no plan in New Jersey by any of the major supermarket chains to request identification for baking soda.