APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

What is vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented liquid obtained from apple juice. Its production process includes alcoholic fermentation, where the sugars from the apple are converted into alcohol, and then acetic fermentation, in which bacteria transform the alcohol into acetic acid, the main component of vinegar.

Properties of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is known for its nutritional and medicinal properties:

• Supports digestion: Stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and helps relieve stomach acidity.
• Regulates blood sugar: Can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose levels.
• Purifying and detoxifying effect: Helps the liver eliminate toxins.
• Aids in weight loss: Can increase satiety and reduce appetite.
• Antibacterial properties: Acts as a natural antimicrobial, useful for skin and oral hygiene.
• Improves cardiovascular health: Can help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.

properties of apple cider vinegar - mentta blog

Types of apple cider vinegar

There are different types according to their production process and filtering:

Raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar: Contains the "mother," a cloudy substance rich in enzymes and probiotics.
Filtered apple cider vinegar: Clearer, without the "mother," with a more commercial appearance.
Organic apple cider vinegar: Made without pesticides or chemicals in the apples.
Pasteurized apple cider vinegar: Heated to eliminate bacteria, but loses some of its probiotic benefits.

Main producing countries

Apple cider vinegar is produced wherever apples are grown, but the main producers are:

United States: A major producer of apple cider vinegar, especially in California and Washington.
France: Known for its artisanal and high-quality apple cider vinegars.
Spain: Produces apple cider vinegar in regions with a tradition in apples, such as Asturias.
Germany: Known for its organic production of apple cider vinegar.
Argentina and Chile: Produce apple cider vinegar from local apples.
China: Exports large volumes of industrial apple cider vinegar.

Ways to consume and prepare it

Apple cider vinegar is very versatile and can be used in various ways:

In salads: As a dressing mixed with olive oil and spices.
Detoxifying drink: Mix a tablespoon in a glass of water with lemon and honey.
In cooking: For marinating meats, fish, or adding to sauces.
In infusions: Combined with tea or ginger to enhance its digestive benefits.
Cosmetic use: Applied to the hair for shine or diluted in water to cleanse the skin.
For oral health: Diluted rinse to combat bacteria (do not overuse to avoid damaging dental enamel).