Vinegar is a common food product found in pantries all across the globe. There are numerous types of vinegars and each kind has unique characteristics. Apple cider vinegar and balsamic vinegar are amongst the most popular vinegars used in the kitchen, but they are very different in nature. To better understand which is healthier - apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar - let’s first outline the similarities and differences of these two vinegars.
A Comparison of Apple Cider Vinegar vs Balsamic Vinegar
Vinegar becomes vinegar through a fermentation process. Rice vinegar is made from fermented rice, malt vinegar comes from fermented grains of malted barley, and cane vinegar is derived from fermented syrup of crushed cane sugar. When it comes to apple cider vinegar vs balsamic vinegar, they also come from two different food sources.
Key Ingredient
As the name indicates, apples are the base ingredient of apple cider vinegar. As part of a two-step fermentation process, apples are crushed into apple juice and naturally-occuring yeast turns the juice into alcohol. From there, the second fermentation begins as bacteria changes the alcohol into acetic acid. Water is then added to the acetic acid to achieve the right amount of acidity.
For balsamic vinegar, grapes are the primary ingredient. Here at Arlotta Food Studio, we create premium, barrel-aged balsamic vinegars following a fermentation process set forth by centuries-old Mediterranean tradition. We take the must of Trebbiano grapes and allow the freshly crushed grape juice to age in oak barrels. As it ages, an evaporation process occurs, which makes the balsamic vinegar become thick and concentrated.
Taste
The long aging process of balsamic vinegar makes it a sweet and smooth vinegar. Comparatively, apple cider vinegar has a sour and tart taste to it.
Color
Balsamic vinegar is a deep brown color, whereas apple cider vinegar is a translucent amber brown or murky, light brown color. You will find two variations of apple cider vinegar - one with “the mother” and one without. Apple cider vinegar with the mother has a cloudy appearance.
Texture
Remember that prolonged aging process used to produce balsamic vinegar? That process not only gives balsamic vinegar a rich and complex flavor profile, it also gives balsamic vinegar its distinct texture. Balsamic vinegar is a dense, syrupy type of texture, while apple cider vinegar is a runny, liquid consistency.
Flavors
Apple cider vinegar does not come in flavored options, but balsamic vinegar does. Yes, you can find stores that stock apple cider flavored distilled vinegar. This is not a true apple cider vinegar. Rather, it’s white distilled vinegar with added flavors and colors to replicate the appearance of apple cider vinegar.
As for balsamic vinegar, Arlotta Food Studio produces three different flavored balsamic vinegars in addition to our traditional, barrel-aged balsamic vinegar:
Furthermore, Arlotta Food Studio manufactures a premium white balsamic vinegar. White balsamic vinegar is also made from Trebbiano grapes, but the grapes are cooked under pressure and the vinegar does not caramelize. This process gives white balsamic vinegar a lighter color tone, but you can expect the same sweet taste as traditional balsamic vinegar.
Both our traditional, barrel-aged balsamic vinegar and premium white balsamic vinegar can be combined with any of our organic, cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oils to create an outstanding vinaigrette. In fact, it’s such a popular pairing that Arlotta Food Studio sells an olive oil and balsamic vinegar gift set.
How To Determine Which Is Healthier - Apple Cider Vinegar or Balsamic
As you compare which is healthier - apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar - you will discover both types of vinegar contain acetic acid. The health-promoting benefits of acetic acid is one reason why vinegar is a healthy ingredient to incorporate into your everyday meals.
Blood Sugar
Acetic acid can help control and regulate blood sugar levels.
Weight Loss
Acetic acid can increase the rate your body burns fat.
Blood Pressure
Acetic acid can help maintain or even lower your blood pressure.
Anti-Inflammatory
Acetic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Why Balsamic Is Better
Although both types of vinegars have redeeming qualities, balsamic vinegar has some additional health advantages.
Cholesterol
The antioxidants found in grapes can help decrease LDL levels (the “bad” cholesterol).
Heart Support
The polyphenols found in grapes can purify the blood and promote increased blood circulation.
Digestion
The enzymes within balsamic vinegar can aid digestion.
Nutrient Absorption/Immune Function
The probiotics in balsamic vinegar can improve gut health. As a result, your body can absorb nutrients better and those nutrients can offer immune system support.
Antibacterial/Antiviral
Balsamic vinegar can kill certain kinds of bacteria and viruses due to its antibacterial and antiviral compounds.
Antimicrobial
The antimicrobial compounds in balsamic vinegar can clear up skin blemishes.
The Health Benefits of Balsamic
When considering the amount of balsamic vinegar you should consume, a little bit goes a long way. You don’t need to feel overwhelmed thinking you have to eat or drink huge amounts of balsamic vinegar to reap the benefits of it. All you need is 1-2 tablespoons a day.
Consistency is the key to unlocking the health advantages of balsamic vinegar. You need to incorporate balsamic vinegar into your daily diet to see significant changes in your health. Similar to how a single workout session at the gym won’t drastically change your weight, a one-time dose of any type of vinegar won’t do much for your health.
As you research which is healthier, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar … and as you weigh out the pros and cons of buying apple cider vinegar vs. balsamic vinegar … make sure to purchase high quality products.
Just like with olive oils, not all vinegars are manufactured in a way that preserves and maintains the naturally-occurring compounds that benefit your health. Beware of imitation vinegars, too.
If you want a traditional, barrel-aged balsamic vinegar you can trust, check out our entire collection at Arlotta Food Studio. Our high production standards ensure that our premium products are nothing less than best.
