No, they’re totally different. Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), which is used commonly used with leavening acids to release CO2 in bakery.  

Is it Natural?
It is a chemical synthesized ingredient and not natural, but derived from the natural ingredient stearic acid, which is a saturated fatty acid can be made from vegetable sources, such as rapeseed oil, palm oil and sunflower oil.

Is it Halal?
Yes, it is halal if stearic acid is from vegetable based, which can comply with the halal policy.

Is it Kosher?
Yes, it is kosher pareve if made from vegetable oils. And you’ll find several suppliers following with different grades with pareve and passover.

Is it Gluten free?
Yes, it is gluten free and can be used as a binder, emulsifier, and anti-caking agent in gluten free food.

Is it Vegan?
Yes, plant based sodium stearate is considered vegan as the manufacturing process without the use of animal matter or products derived from animal origin.

Conclusion
Now you may have an understanding of the salts of fatty acids – Sodium Stearate (E470a), from its components; production; properties; uses in food, cosmetics and soap; safety and so on.

What do you think of this additive? Let me know in the comments.

http://www.chinafooding.com/Sodium_Stearate