Best Apple Cider Vinegar Brands: Top Picks for Health and Cooking

Apple cider vinegar has gained tremendous popularity as a versatile ingredient for cooking, health tonics, and even beauty routines. With its tangy flavor and potential health benefits, choosing the right brand can make all the difference in quality and effectiveness.

This comprehensive guide explores the top apple cider vinegar brands available in the United States, helping you find the perfect option for your specific needs and budget.

Quick Overview: Top Apple Cider Vinegar Brands

• Best Overall: Fairchild Organic Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother
• Best for Cooking: Bragg Organic Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar
• Best Budget Option: Kevala Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
• Best Flavored Tonic: Vermont Village Apple Cider Vinegar
• Best for Versatility: Wedderspoon Apple Cider Vinegar with Manuka Honey
• Best Gummies: Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies
• Best Capsules: Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar Supplement
• Best Hair Rinse: dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is made through a fermentation process that transforms crushed apples and water into a potent liquid containing acetic acid, the primary active compound responsible for its distinctive properties.

Typically, apple cider vinegar contains approximately 5-6% acetic acid, along with trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds. The fermentation process creates a substance that has been valued for centuries in culinary and traditional wellness practices.

Understanding “The Mother”

When shopping for apple cider vinegar, you’ll often see products labeled “with the mother.” This refers to the cloudy, cobweb-like substance that forms during fermentation, consisting of:

• Beneficial bacteria and probiotics
• Enzymes
• Protein strands
• Acetic acid bacteria

Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar containing the mother is generally considered more beneficial due to its probiotic content and active enzymes.

Filtered vs. Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar

Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar

Unfiltered varieties retain the mother and have a murky appearance. These products are:

• Often unpasteurized and raw
• Rich in beneficial bacteria
• Higher in active enzymes
• Preferred for potential health benefits

Important note: Pregnant women, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems should consult healthcare providers before consuming unpasteurized products.

Filtered Apple Cider Vinegar

Filtered versions have the mother removed, resulting in:

• Clear, amber-colored liquid
• Longer shelf stability
• Milder flavor
• Generally pasteurized for safety

Detailed Reviews: Best Apple Cider Vinegar Brands

1. Fairchild Organic Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother – Best Overall

Price Range: $

Type: Unfiltered, Raw, Organic

Fairchild stands out as the top choice for apple cider vinegar enthusiasts. Made exclusively from 100% organic Washington apples, this product distinguishes itself by being undiluted—unlike many competitors that add water.

Key Features:

• USDA Certified Organic
• Unpasteurized and unfiltered
• Contains the mother
• No water added
• Bold, authentic apple flavor
• Free from concentrates

Nutritional Information: One tablespoon (15 mL) contains 5 calories and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Pros:

• Superior concentration without dilution
• Strong apple flavor appreciated by users
• Certified organic with transparent sourcing
• Greater bacterial diversity for gut health

Cons:

• Glass bottle may be prone to breakage or leaking
• Higher price point than some alternatives

2. Bragg Organic Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar – Best for Cooking

Price Range: $

Type: Unfiltered, Raw, Organic

Bragg is arguably the most recognized name in apple cider vinegar, and for good reason. This versatile product excels in culinary applications from salad dressings to marinades.

Key Features:

• USDA Certified Organic
• Non-GMO verified
• Contains the mother
• Available in multiple sizes (16 oz, 32 oz, 128 oz)
• Widely available in stores

Nutritional Information: One tablespoon (15 mL) contains 0 calories and 0 grams of carbohydrates.

Pros:

• Excellent value, especially in larger sizes
• Consistent quality and taste
• Perfect for daily cooking needs
• Easy to find in most grocery stores

Cons:

• Stronger acidic smell than some brands
• May be too intense for drinking undiluted

3. Kevala Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar – Best Budget Pick

Price Range: $

Type: Unfiltered, Raw, Organic

Kevala offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. This budget-friendly option provides all the benefits of premium apple cider vinegar at a more accessible price point.

Key Features:

• USDA Certified Organic
• Non-GMO verified
• Made from U.S.-grown apples
• Contains purified water
• Free from artificial additives

Nutritional Information: One tablespoon (15 mL) provides 0 calories and 0 grams of carbohydrates.

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-quality ratio
• Clean, slightly sweet taste
• Ideal for multiple uses (cooking, cleaning, hair care)
• Large size options available

Cons:

• Only available in plastic containers
• Less concentrated than undiluted options

4. Vermont Village Apple Cider Vinegar – Best Flavored Tonic

Price Range: $$$

Type: Unfiltered Tonic

For those who find straight apple cider vinegar too intense, Vermont Village offers delicious flavored options that make consumption more enjoyable.

Popular Flavors:

• Blueberry Honey
• Turmeric and Honey
• Ginger and Honey

Key Features:

• USDA Certified Organic
• Raw and unfiltered
• Naturally sweetened with honey
• Only 3-4 ingredients per product
• Ready-to-drink format

Nutritional Information: One serving (1 oz/15 mL) of Blueberry Honey flavor contains 25 calories and 6 grams of added sugar.

Pros:

• Pleasant taste makes consumption easier
• High-quality organic ingredients
• Convenient single-serving shots
• Combines benefits of multiple ingredients

Cons:

• Contains added sugar
• More expensive per ounce
• Not suitable for vegans (contains honey)
• Need to watch portion sizes

5. Wedderspoon Apple Cider Vinegar with Manuka Honey – Best for Versatility

Price Range: $

Type: Unfiltered Tonic

Combining New Zealand manuka honey with apple cider vinegar, Wedderspoon creates a versatile product suitable for both wellness tonics and culinary uses.

Key Features:

• Contains raw manuka honey
• Cold-pressed fermentation
• Unpasteurized
• No heat or chemicals used
• Only three ingredients

Nutritional Information: One tablespoon (15 mL) contains 15 calories, 3 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of sugar.

Pros:

• Combines benefits of manuka honey and apple cider vinegar
• Pleasant, slightly sweet taste
• Works well in dressings and tonics
• Antibacterial properties from manuka honey

Cons:

• Contains added sugar
• Not vegan
• Only available in plastic containers
• Higher calorie content

6. Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies – Best Gummies

Price Range: $$

Type: Supplement Gummies

For those who can’t tolerate liquid vinegar, Goli offers a convenient gummy alternative. However, it’s important to note that research on the effectiveness of gummy supplements compared to liquid vinegar is limited.

Key Features:

• USDA Certified Organic
• Certified vegan
• Free of artificial additives
• Manufactured in FDA-registered facility following cGMP standards
• Contains added B vitamins
• Allergen-free

Nutritional Information: Each gummy contains 15 calories, 4 grams of carbs, 1 gram of sugar, 500 mg of apple cider vinegar, and 50% DV of vitamins B12 and B9.

Pros:

• Easy to consume without strong vinegar taste
• Pleasant flavor
• Portable and convenient
• Added vitamin benefits

Cons:

• Limited research on gummy effectiveness
• Contains added sugar
• Not third-party tested
• Need two gummies for adequate dose (750mg acetic acid)
• More expensive per serving

7. Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar Supplement – Best Capsules

Price Range: $$

Type: Capsules

Bragg’s capsule form offers a sugar-free alternative for those who prefer supplements without the taste of vinegar or the sugar content of gummies.

Key Features:

• Non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• Sugar-free
• Vegan capsules
• No artificial additives
• Contains vitamin D3

Nutritional Information: Three capsules contain 750 mg of acetic acid and 30 mcg of vitamin D3.

Pros:

• No vinegar taste
• Zero sugar content
• Easy to take with meals
• Added vitamin D benefit

Cons:

• Requires three capsules per serving
• Benefits of capsule form not clinically proven
• Less research than liquid forms

8. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse – Best Hair Care Product

Price Range: $$$

Type: Hair Care Rinse

While research on topical apple cider vinegar use is limited, many users report improved hair and scalp health with dpHUE’s specialized formula.

Key Features:

• Contains argan oil
• Rich in vitamin E
• pH-balancing formula
• Antimicrobial properties
• Designed for all hair types

Pros:

• Highly rated by users
• May improve scalp health
• Strengthens hair
• Contains moisturizing ingredients
• Helps with dandruff

Cons:

• Limited scientific research on topical benefits
• Strong vinegar scent
• Higher price point
• Results vary by individual

How to Choose the Right Apple Cider Vinegar

Selecting the best apple cider vinegar depends on your intended use and personal preferences. Consider these factors:

For Health and Wellness

• Choose organic, raw, unfiltered varieties with the mother
• Look for USDA Organic certification
• Avoid products with excessive added sugars
• Check for non-GMO verification
• Consider the acetic acid concentration

For Cooking

• Both filtered and unfiltered work well
• Buy larger quantities for better value
• Ensure it’s made from real apples (not “apple-flavored”)
• Organic options may provide better flavor

For Hair and Skin Care

• Raw, unfiltered versions are preferred
• Look for products with added beneficial ingredients
• Consider specialized formulations designed for topical use
• Test on a small area first for sensitivity

Quality Indicators

Look for these signs of quality when shopping:

• Organic certification: Ensures apples were grown without synthetic pesticides
• Contains the mother: Indicates less processing and more beneficial compounds
• Raw and unpasteurized: Retains active enzymes and probiotics
• Minimal ingredients: Should contain only apples and possibly water
• No artificial additives: Avoid products with colorings, flavorings, or preservatives
• Proper packaging: Dark glass bottles protect from light damage

Understanding Apple Cider Vinegar Labels

Common Label Terms

Organic: Apples grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, following USDA organic standards.

Raw: Unprocessed vinegar that hasn’t been heated, filtered, or refined.

Unfiltered: Retains the mother and has a cloudy appearance.

Unpasteurized: Has not undergone heat treatment, preserving active enzymes and probiotics.

With the Mother: Contains the beneficial bacterial culture formed during fermentation.

Non-GMO: Made from apples not genetically modified.

Potential Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Research suggests apple cider vinegar may offer several health benefits, though more human studies are needed:

Blood Sugar Management

Studies indicate that acetic acid may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels after meals. However, individuals taking blood sugar medications should consult healthcare providers before regular use.

Digestive Health

The probiotics in raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar may support gut health and digestive function. Greater bacterial diversity in the gut has been associated with various health benefits.

Heart Health Support

Some research suggests apple cider vinegar may help maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, though more human studies are needed.

Weight Management

Limited studies suggest acetic acid may support weight management efforts when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Antimicrobial Properties

The acetic acid in vinegar has natural antimicrobial effects, which is why it’s been used historically for food preservation and cleaning.

Important Note: Before using apple cider vinegar for health purposes, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing medical conditions or take medications.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar Safely

Recommended Dosage

While research is limited, most studies use approximately 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of apple cider vinegar diluted in water, which provides about 750 mg of acetic acid.

Safety Guidelines

• Always dilute: Mix with water to protect tooth enamel and throat
• Start small: Begin with 1 teaspoon and gradually increase
• Use a straw: Minimize contact with teeth
• Rinse mouth: Wash with plain water after consuming
• Don’t exceed recommendations: Large amounts may cause adverse effects
• Take with meals: May help reduce digestive discomfort

Populations That Should Exercise Caution

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (especially with unpasteurized products)
• People with low potassium levels
• Individuals taking diuretics or insulin
• Those with gastroparesis
• People with osteoporosis
• Children
• Immunocompromised individuals

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper Storage

To maintain quality:

• Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
• Keep away from heat sources
• Use a pantry or cupboard for best results
• Transfer to dark glass containers if needed
• Ensure the cap is tightly sealed

Shelf Life

Apple cider vinegar has an impressive shelf life due to its acidic nature:

• Unopened: Indefinite shelf life
• Opened: Best quality for 2-5 years
• The mother may develop or change appearance over time (this is normal)
• Vinegar remains safe to use even if appearance changes

Comparing Price and Value

Brand	Price Range	Size	Price per Ounce	Best For
Fairchild Organic	$$	32 oz	$0.31	Overall quality
Bragg Organic	$	32 oz	$0.31	Cooking
Kevala Organic	$	64 oz	$0.34	Budget
Vermont Village	$$$	8 oz	$0.69	Flavor
Wedderspoon	$$	25 oz	$0.28	Versatility

Frequently Asked Questions

Is organic apple cider vinegar worth the extra cost?

Organic apple cider vinegar may offer benefits including:

• Greater diversity of beneficial bacteria
• No pesticide residues
• Stricter production standards
• Better for environmental sustainability

For those prioritizing these factors, organic options are worth considering.

Can I make my own apple cider vinegar?

Yes, homemade apple cider vinegar can be made from apple scraps, water, and sugar. However, the process takes several weeks and requires careful attention to avoid contamination. Commercial products offer convenience and consistent quality.

Does apple cider vinegar expire?

Due to its high acidity, apple cider vinegar doesn’t spoil in the traditional sense. It remains safe indefinitely, though quality may decline after several years. Changes in appearance are normal and don’t indicate spoilage.

Should I refrigerate apple cider vinegar?

Refrigeration is not necessary. Store apple cider vinegar in a cool, dark place at room temperature. Cold storage won’t harm it but isn’t required for preservation.

What’s the difference between apple cider vinegar and white vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples and contains beneficial compounds like the mother. White vinegar is more refined, typically made from grain alcohol, and has a more intense acidic taste without the same potential health properties.

Can apple cider vinegar help with weight loss?

Some studies suggest apple cider vinegar may support weight management efforts by promoting feelings of fullness and supporting healthy metabolism. However, it’s not a magic solution and works best as part of a comprehensive healthy lifestyle.

How long does it take to see results from apple cider vinegar?

Results vary by individual and intended use. Some people report digestive benefits within days, while effects on weight or blood sugar may take several weeks of consistent use. Always consult healthcare providers for specific health concerns.

Is apple cider vinegar safe for daily use?

When properly diluted and consumed in recommended amounts (typically 1-2 tablespoons per day), apple cider vinegar is generally safe for most people. However, excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects.

Other Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Household Cleaning

Apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial properties make it useful for:

• All-purpose surface cleaner
• Natural deodorizer
• Drain maintenance
• Fruit and vegetable wash

Beauty and Personal Care

Beyond hair rinses, apple cider vinegar can be used for:

• Facial toners (diluted)
• Foot soaks
• Natural deodorant
• Bath additive

Caution: Always dilute apple cider vinegar before topical use and perform a patch test first.

Garden and Pet Care

Some uses include:

• Weed control
• Cleaning garden tools
• Pet ear cleaning (consult veterinarian first)
• Deterring pests

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best apple cider vinegar depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. For overall quality and health benefits, organic, raw, unfiltered varieties with the mother offer the most potential advantages.

Fairchild Organic Apple Cider Vinegar stands out as the top overall choice due to its undiluted formula and high-quality organic apples. For cooking needs and budget-conscious consumers, Bragg and Kevala offer excellent alternatives.

Those seeking more palatable options may prefer flavored tonics from Vermont Village or Wedderspoon, while supplement forms provide convenience for people who can’t tolerate liquid vinegar.

Remember to:

• Always dilute apple cider vinegar before consuming
• Start with small amounts and increase gradually
• Consult healthcare providers if you have medical conditions or take medications
• Choose organic, unfiltered varieties for maximum potential benefits
• Store properly to maintain quality

Whether you’re using apple cider vinegar for cooking, wellness routines, or household purposes, selecting a high-quality product ensures you get the best results for your investment.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect
• NIH – Beneficial effects of Apple Cider Vinegar on weight management
• PubMed Central – Effects of apple cider vinegar on glycemic control
• NIH – Probiotics and beneficial microorganisms in vinegar
• PubMed – Bacterial diversity in organic apple cider vinegar
• American Heart Association – Added Sugars Guidelines
• FDA – Current Good Manufacturing Practices
• NIH – Antimicrobial properties of vinegar