We hear a lot about apple cider vinegar and the various health benefits it has for us, but what about plain white vinegar? Some people call this type distilled or spirit vinegar. It doesn’t get the same attention. It is very versatile, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was sold out at stores because of its cleaning uses. Most everyone has it in their pantry because at any time you might need some for cooking, baking, and cleaning. Drinking it by itself tastes much too harsh so it is always an ingredient used for something else. It is made of 4–7% acetic acid and 93–96% water. It is made by undergoing the fermentation of grain alcohol.
There are health benefits associated with white vinegar. Although more research is needed, it has been shown to reduce cholesterol as well as being able to lower blood sugar level and insulin levels after eating. It also has antimicrobial properties so it can help with burns and skin infections. It can also help with nail fungus and ear infections. These same antimicrobial properties are why it is popularly used for cleaning. White vinegar is good for cleaning countertops, floors, dishes, mirrors, toilets, coffee makers, and taking stains out of laundry. People who enjoy gardening like to use vinegar to kill weeds. It also can be put in water to keep fresh cut flowers longer.
White vinegar is used for cooking too. It is used to make many sauces and marinades. It is used to make baked good rise. Some cheeses can be made from vinegar and milk. It is most well known for being used in pickles, eggs, and fruits. Some people put it on their salads too. Having too much white vinegar can cause gastrointestinal problems such as heartburn. Eating too much food with white vinegar in it can also cause teeth problems with enamel erosion.
White vinegar is a kitchen staple for many, and it gets little credit for all it does. It has a long shelf life, so most people don’t buy it too often. It’s certainly a “just in case” or because “I might need it” item to have in the house. It isn’t too expensive either. For all it can do and help with, white vinegar is worth keeping around.
Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect – PMC (nih.gov)
Functional Properties of Vinegar – Budak – 2014 – Journal of Food Science – Wiley Online Library
