For those who love a warming bowl of tomato soup but suffer from the painful effects of acid reflux, a simple kitchen staple could be the game-changing solution. While sugar is often touted as a way to cut acidity, a food expert has revealed a more effective method: a small amount of baking soda.
The Science Behind Soothing Your Stomach
Tomatoes are a cornerstone of British comfort food, especially as the weather turns colder. However, their high acidity can irritate the oesophagus and trigger uncomfortable reflux symptoms when stomach acid flows back up. This often forces individuals with sensitivities to avoid these dishes entirely.
According to Tim Frey, a food expert who shared his advice on Instagram, the solution is rooted in basic chemistry. In a video posted on his profile, he demonstrated adding a mere quarter teaspoon of baking soda to a large pot of tomato soup, approximately 1.5 gallons or 5.6 litres in volume.
The mixture immediately began to fizz and bubble, a visible sign of the neutralisation process at work. Tim explained that this reaction effectively reduces the acid content of the dish, making it far less severe for those with acid reflux.
Why Baking Soda Outperforms Sugar
Many home cooks have long relied on a spoonful of sugar to tame the tartness of tomato-based sauces and soups. Tim Frey, however, claims this method is less effective. He stated that while sugar can mask the acidic taste, it doesn't actually neutralise the acid to the same degree, and primarily just makes the dish sweeter.
The key to using baking soda successfully is in the preparation. "Just make sure to mix it thoroughly and then cook it for another 20 minutes," Tim advised, noting that uncooked baking soda has an unpleasant flavour.
The revelation was met with gratitude from many followers, with one commenter writing, "I appreciate this post because I love red sauce, but it tears my stomach up." Another echoed the scientific basis, saying, "It's not even a trick, it's chemistry! Use baking soda to neutralise acid."
Considering the Flavour and Managing Acid Reflux
While the trick offers significant relief, some users offered a word of caution. One commenter pointed out that neutralising the acid "changes the flavour dramatically," as the characteristic bright, tangy taste of tomatoes is diminished. For some, this trade-off may mean the solution isn't for everyone.
Beyond culinary adjustments, the NHS provides guidelines for managing acid reflux, which can be exacerbated by factors like being overweight, stress, or smoking. Key recommendations include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding food triggers, and not eating within three to four hours of bedtime.
For those determined to enjoy their favourite tomato-based meals without discomfort, this simple baking soda hack, shared by Tim Frey on November 22, 2025, provides a potent and scientifically sound alternative to the traditional sugar method.
