Cleaning Vinegar vs Food-Grade Vinegar
If you've ever browsed vinegar options in a supermarket or hardware store, you might’ve noticed labels like “cleaning vinegar” and “distilled vinegar.” While they may look similar, the differences between them are important—especially if you’re preserving food or fermenting at home.
What Is Cleaning Vinegar?
Cleaning vinegar is stronger than food-grade vinegar. It usually has around 6–7% acetic acid (compared to 5% in regular white vinegar), and it’s designed for use around the home—such as for removing limescale, disinfecting, or degreasing surfaces. It’s not meant to be consumed.
What Is Food-Grade Vinegar?
This includes distilled malt vinegar, white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and more. These are safe to eat and use in pickling, cooking, and fermentation. They usually have 4–5% acetic acid and undergo processing to meet food safety standards.
Can You Use Cleaning Vinegar in Food?
No. It may contain impurities, and the higher acid content can alter pH balance in preservation recipes. Always use food-grade vinegar for anything you intend to eat.
Summary Table
| Feature | Cleaning Vinegar | Food-Grade Vinegar |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | ~6–7% | ~5% |
| Edible? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Uses | Cleaning only | Cooking, preserving |
| Additives | May contain non-edible | Purified for food use |
| Cost | Often cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
Summary
- Cleaning vinegar: Not for consumption. Higher acid. Great for home cleaning.
- Food-grade vinegar: Safe to eat. Used for cooking, pickling, and preserving.
Always read the label. When in doubt, use white distilled vinegar marked for food use.