What is the mother in cider vinegar?
A natural culture of bacteria and yeast formed during fermentation. It makes raw vinegar look cloudy or stringy, and it means the vinegar has not been filtered or pasteurised.
Should I dilute cider vinegar?
Yes. Neat vinegar is hard on tooth enamel. A spoonful in a glass of water is the usual way, and a straw helps if you take it daily.
Why is one balsamic so much dearer?
Ageing and ingredients. A long-aged balsamic is thick and made from grape must alone; a cheap one is wine vinegar with colouring and sweetener.
Does vinegar go off?
Not really - it is self-preserving. It may change colour or throw a sediment over time, which is harmless. The best-before is about quality rather than safety.
