What's the difference between apple cider vinegar and regular vinegar?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.There is a significant difference in composition and origin between apple cider vinegar and regular distilled vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is derived from the fermentation of apple juice, which retains certain trace minerals, including potassium and magnesium. Regular vinegar means, here at least, distilled white vinegar made from grain alcohol distilled to its essence and becomes pure acetic acid. It is the differences in manufacture that create differences in properties.
Composition
- Apple cider: Contains acetic acid bacteria and trace minerals
- Distilled white: Pure acetic acid diluted in water
- Unfiltered apple cider includes visible mother sediment
Production Process
- Apple cider: Double fermentation of apple sugars
- Distilled white: Industrial distillation of grain alcohol
- Mother forms naturally in unpasteurized apple cider
Culinary uses prefer apple cider vinegar because of its milder flavor. A pleasant fruity flavor would enhance the recipe for salad dressings without dominating the other ingredients used. Distilled white vinegar is preferred for pickling and other preparations due to its neutral taste. They should never be substituted for each other in equal amounts in recipes. Cooked apple cider vinegar is stripped of its complex flavor.
The effectiveness of cleaning greatly depends on the type being used. Because distilled white vinegar is more acidic, it is more effective in removing mineral deposits. Apple cider vinegar is made from fruits and will leave fruity material on surfaces. They both disinfect surfaces, but since distilled vinegar penetrates dirt more quickly, it is the better product to use for surface cleaning. Regardless of type, do not use either on natural stone or electronics.
Health considerations differ, but acidity levels are equivalent to those of distilled vinegar. Trace minerals of apple cider vinegar have no or negligible nutritional value. No proven health effects are attributable to the *mother*. Distilled vinegar contains neither nutrients nor compounds. Neither of the two substances should be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Both require the same dilution before ingestion for safety.
Choose according to your needs. Select apple cider vinegar for cooking and diluted skin toners. Select distilled white vinegar for heavy cleaning. Read labels carefully for things like sulfites. Store in a glass in a dark place. Discard if cloudiness appears in the distilled types.
Read the full article: 7 Key Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar
