Apple cider vinegar, once a humble pantry item, has been elevated to a kitchen necessity in recent years. It boasts a supposed array of health and beauty benefits, like weight loss [1], boosting your immune system [2], and glowing skin [3]. People sing its praises like the dad in My Big Fat Greek Wedding talks about Windex. (Only, unlike Windex, there's actually evidence to back up the benefits of ACV [4].) Basically, we can't get enough.
But how, exactly, should one store ACV to reap the maximum benefits? Specifically, does it need to be refrigerated?
Short answer: no. Apple cider vinegar does not need to be refrigerated. The acidity of the vinegar effectively ensures that no bacteria will grow in it. Plus, vinegar is itself a preservative, which negates any need to preserve it by putting it in the fridge. It is recommended, however, that you store it in a cool place away from direct sunlight to keep the quality and flavor.
Just remember: though ACV has a multitude of benefits, you shouldn't be guzzling it down like water after a sweaty run! Here's how to know how much ACV you should drink [6].