What is the difference between apple cider vinegar and white vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar and white vinegar differ mainly in what they are made from. Apple cider vinegar is fermented from apple juice, first into alcohol and then into acetic acid. White vinegar is fermented from diluted distilled alcohol, often from grain. In the US both are at least 4% acidity at retail; cider vinegar is typically 5–6%.
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Key facts
| Apple cider vinegar | White (distilled) vinegar | |
|---|---|---|
| FDA definition | Alcoholic and then acetous fermentation of apple juice [1] | Acetous fermentation of dilute distilled alcohol [1] |
| Also called | Cider vinegar, apple vinegar [1] | Spirit vinegar, distilled vinegar, grain vinegar [1] |
| Typical acidity | About 5–6% [2] | At least 4%, not more than 7% [2] |
| Keeping | Can show colour change, haze or sediment over time [2] | Stays virtually unchanged [2] |
Why do they taste different?
Cider vinegar keeps compounds from the apples it was made from; the Vinegar Institute notes that vinegar contains mineral salts and other compounds from the starting material that give it its distinct flavour. [2] White vinegar starts from distilled alcohol, so it is cleaner and sharper. Whether "cider vinegar" and "apple cider vinegar" differ is covered in cider vinegar vs apple cider vinegar.
Which is better for cooking and cleaning?
For cooking, the choice is mostly about flavour: cider vinegar adds apple character, white vinegar a neutral sharpness. [2] For cleaning, the Vinegar Institute says the acid in vinegar helps cut through grease on counter tops, and that products sold as "cleaning vinegar" should be stronger than table vinegar, above 5% acidity, and list vinegar in the ingredients. [2] Follow the product label for any cleaning use.
Is apple cider vinegar healthier than white vinegar?
We don't make health claims. Most vinegars contain insignificant amounts of calories and nutrients, according to the Vinegar Institute. [2] For questions about vinegar and your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Related answers: cider vinegar vs apple cider vinegar · how apple cider vinegar is made
Related on Cider Radar
- Guide: how cider is made, the first step on the way to cider vinegar
- Glossary: fermentation
Questions
What is a blend of spirit and cider vinegar called?
FDA guidance says it should be labelled as a blend, naming the vinegars in order of predominance. [1]
Sources
- CPG Sec. 525.825 Vinegar, Definitions – Adulteration with Vinegar Eels — US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Vinegar FAQs — The Vinegar Institute