how apple cider vinegar is made - #23382
I am curious about how apple cider vinegar is made because I’ve been trying to incorporate it into my diet for wellness. A few weeks ago, I heard from a friend that it can help with digestion and even weight loss, so I decided to give it a shot. I bought some organic apple cider vinegar from the store, but then I started wondering... how apple cider vinegar is made in the first place? Like, does it really make a difference if it’s homemade vs store-bought?? I mean, I read somewhere that it involves fermentation, but that’s kinda vague, right? One night, I tried to make my own using apples from the farmer’s market – I chopped them up, added sugar, and some water, but I’m unsure if I did it right. I didn’t even know how long it needed to ferment or how to tell if it was actually turning into apple cider vinegar instead of just rotting apples! I tried Googling it, but then I got lost in all these details about “the Mother” and stuff. Can someone break down the process of how apple cider vinegar is made in simple terms? Do you think my homemade attempt could even be any good? Or should I just stick to the bottles from the store?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made through a two-step fermentation process. First, the apples are crushed and juiced; the natural sugars in the apple juice are fermented into alcohol by the action of yeasts, similar to how cider is made. In the second step, bacteria convert the alcohol into acetic acid, which gives ACV its distinctive sour taste and pungent smell. This process can take several weeks to months, especially if done at home. The “Mother” you mentioned is a colony of beneficial bacteria and enzymes formed during fermentation—it appears as a cloudy or stringy substance in raw, unfiltered ACV, and is believed to enhance health benefits.
Comparing homemade versus store-bought, homemade apple cider vinegar can be fresher and unfiltered, maintaining more of the natural components like the Mother. However, the consistency in acidity may vary if you make it at home, which can affect its taste and efficacy. Store-bought ACV is consistent, typically pasteurized for longer shelf life and safety, but may have some beneficial components removed. If you’ve already added apples, sugar, and water, you’re on the right track, but you’ll need patience and a bit more attention to detail to ensure proper fermentation. Let your mixture sit for about 3 to 4 weeks covered with a cloth to allow airflow while keeping out debris. Stir periodically and check for any undesirable mold growth, which signals spoiled vinegar. Use a clean cloth to strain the liquid from solids once it’s developed that vinegar smell. If you notice undesirable odors or colors, it’s safer to discard it.
If you decide homemade is too tricky or time-consuming, sticking with a reputable store-bought brand that contains the Mother is a good compromise for reaping any potential digestive or health benefits you seek. Just remember to introduce it slowly into your diet, as excessive consumption can lead to health issues like tooth enamel erosion or digestive upset.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.