Feeling confused about apple cider vinegar? You’re not the only one! Apples are high FODMAP so how can apple cider vinegar be low FODMAP? Check out my article to find out how manufacturing processes can change FODMAP levels.
What is apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) or cider vinegar is an amber coloured liquid that has a tangy yet slightly fruity taste (The Cooks Thesaurus, 2016). The vinegar is made from the juice of crushed apples, which is double fermented (Gunnars, 2016). During the first fermentation, yeast converts the sugars in the juice into alcohol (Commins, 2015; Gunnars, 2016). Then in the second fermentation the alcohol is converted into acetic and malic acid by bacteria (Commins, 2015; Gunnars, 2016).
Organic or unpasteurised AVC contains the ‘mother’ of vinegar (strands of proteins, enzymes and bacteria), which give the vinegar a cloudy cobweb-like appearance (Gunnars, 2016).
Apple cider vinegar has a strong flavour, making it perfect for marinades, chutneys and stews (The Cooks Thesaurus, 2016).
Why is apple cider vinegar low FODMAP?
Apples are high FODMAP, so you might be wondering why apple cider vinegar is low FODMAP. We know that fermentation of foods can reduce their FODMAP levels.
According to Nu Tran from Monash University, “Yes, fermentation does lower the FODMAP content of foods. However, it may not necessarily change the FODMAP content enough for it to go from a ‘red’ rating to an ‘amber’ rating, or an ‘amber’ rating to a ‘green’. It’s dependent on the individual foods, the fermentation process used, as well as the person’s tolerance” (Monash Blog, 2015).
In the case of the apple cider, the double fermentation manufacturing process seems to reduce the high levels of fructose and sorbitol found in apples, to safe levels within the low FODMAP threshold.
What is the safe serving size for apple cider vinegar?
According to the Monash University low FODMAP app the safe serving size for apple cider vinegar is 2 tablespoons (Monash University App, 2016). For extensive and up-to-date lists of low and high FODMAP foods please check out the Monash Low FODMAP app.
Final Thoughts
Apple cider vinegar is low FODMAP and you can safely enjoy its tangy and fruity flavours in your next meal.