Apple cider vinegar mainly consists of apple juice and yeast which helps turn the sugar in the juice into alcohol. This process is called fermentation.
When one thinks of apple cider vinegar, the first two things that are often associated would be its strong smell and taste. That’s because apple cider vinegar is infamous for its strong (sometimes bordering on unpleasant) smell and its sour taste. The bacteria found during the fermentation process turn the alcohol into acetic acid which gives vinegar its distinctive taste and smell.
Many are unable to look beyond the taste and smell when it comes to apple cider vinegar. However, whether you love or hate it, it’s undeniable that apple cider vinegar has plenty of benefits that it can offer. Here’s what we found out.
#1 It helps kill bacterias
The antibacterial property in vinegar has led it to become a favourite solution used for cleaning and disinfection purposes. Its antibacterial properties has led to the wide believe that apple cider vinegar can eliminate bad smell, thus acting as a deodoriser. On top of that, some also use apple cider vinegar to soothe sore throats because they believe the vinegar’s antibacterial property could help kill the bacteria that are causing the sore throat. Hence, making apple cider vinegar a popular household remedy for sore throat. However, it should be noted that there is no sufficient evidence to back up this claim.
#2 Great for pickling!
Vinegar is a favourite choice for pickling enthusiasts because it makes excellent preservatives. Apple cider vinegar is included too. It’s been an ideal pickling agent since thousands of years! Adding apple cider vinegar helps kill any bacteria or germs that can cause the food to spoil. This is because apple cider vinegar makes the food more acidic in the pickling process. If you’re looking for a natural way to preserve your food, apple cider vinegar may just help you with that.
#3 Helps trap fruit flies
Fruit flies are attracted to overly ripe fruits which emit carbon dioxide. Apple cider vinegar is found to emit a similar sweet odour akin to the scent of overly ripe fruit. When used in a trap, this lures the fruit flies to fall into it. It’s a cost-friendly method that is convenient for individuals who intend to handle pest issues related to fruit flies.
#4 Helps with egg poaching
The firming of an egg is what makes the perfect poached eggs. Proteins found in eggs will firm up better when it interacts with a more acidic liquid. If you’re wondering what is a chef’s secret to a beautifully poached egg, it’s a couple of drops of apple cider vinegar dropped in the water in which the egg is being poached. Using vinegar when poaching or boiling eggs will help quicken the coagulation of the egg whites.
Apple cider vs vinegar White vinegar
Colour
The big giveaway between apple cider vinegar and white vinegar are their colours. White vinegar, in line with its name, is clear. Apple cider vinegar on the other hand has a murky brown colour.
Content Ratio
Apple cider vinegar contains approximately five to six percent of acetic acid (a byproduct of the vinegar’s fermentation process) with a water content that ranges from 94 to 95 percent. Whereas the regular white vinegar contains four to seven percent of acetic acid. As for white vinegar’s water content, it’s between 93 to 96 percent of water.
Nutritional Value
Apple cider vinegar has a higher nutritional value as compared to white vinegar because of the added bonus of fruits in the vinegar. Apples are one of the most highly nutritious fruits out there and the juice adds further benefits on top of the existing nutrients found in the vinegar. Apples in itself are high in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants.
Please take note!
Apple cider vinegar is safe to consume when taken in moderation. Little is known about the consumption threshold, thus exercising caution when consuming it, is important. Generally, one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or 15 to 30 ml (when diluted with drinking water) is considered a safe amount for daily consumption. It can be taken before or after meals. More importantly, do check with your doctor before consuming.
Source: Healthline, WebMD, Reader’s Digest
