I’ve been wondering the same thing.
I know it’s acidic and can do some disinfecting.
And there’s still plenty on the shelves.
Here’s what I found:
Vinegar
When US researchers tested commercial cleaning products against alternatives like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, they discovered that neat vinegar killed a range of household pathogens.
Vinegar, be it white or malt or rosemary-infused, is about 5 per cent acetic acid. The acid kills bacteria and viruses, by chemically changing the proteins and fats that make up these nasties and destroying their cell structures.
Science also tells us, for example, that vinegar will kill off the flu virus.
As part of research aimed at preparing us for a flu pandemic, UK researchers found that malt vinegar, much like bleach and washing up liquid, can rapidly inactivate the flu virus.
More recently, US researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that vinegar efficiently killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis - the bacteria that causes tuberculosis - after 30 mins of exposure to a six per cent acetic solution.
apple cider vinegar
Viruses, bacteria, and even allergies can cause sore throats. Most sore throats resolve on their own, but at-home treatment can help you feel better as you recover.
Some people claim apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help soothe a sore throat. ACV is a fermented liquid made from crushed apples. However, there’s little scientific data to back up this claim.
ResearchTrusted Source has found ACV to have antibacterial properties, so it may help with sore throats caused by bacterial infections. However, bacterial infections usually require antibiotics. Viruses cause most sore throats, not bacteria. Antibiotics can’t treat viral infections.
Despite the lack of scientific data, there’s anecdotal evidence that ACV can help ease a sore throat for some people.
EPA did not review vinegar.