Homonym: Lye (Soap)
Lye is a strong alkaline substance, commonly known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). It is often used in various industrial processes, such as soap making, food preparation, and cleaning products. Lye can effectively break down fats and oils, making it a key ingredient in the saponification process, where it reacts with fats to produce soap.
In addition to its use in soap making, lye is also utilized in food processing, particularly in the preparation of certain traditional foods like olives and pretzels. However, due to its caustic nature, lye must be handled with care, as it can cause severe burns and injuries if it comes into contact with skin or eyes.