What does vinegar contain?

- Acetic acid: This is the main component of vinegar and gives it its sour taste and distinctive smell. It is produced when ethanol (alcohol) undergoes fermentation by acetic acid bacteria. The concentration of acetic acid in vinegar varies depending on the type, but distilled white vinegar typically contains around 5-10% acetic acid.

- Water: Water makes up the majority of the volume of vinegar.

- Trace compounds: Vinegar may also contain trace amounts of other compounds, such as minerals (e.g., potassium, calcium), vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin B1), and flavoring agents (e.g., esters). These compounds can vary depending on the source of the vinegar and the production process.

Balsamic vinegar, for example, is made from concentrated grape must and undergoes a longer aging process, resulting in a distinct flavor profile and a higher concentration of compounds like polyphenols and antioxidants compared to distilled white vinegar.