Balsamic Vinegar
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What it is
Balsamic vinegar is a dark, intensely flavored vinegar originating from Italy. It is made from grape must (crushed grapes, including skins, seeds, and stems) that is cooked down, then aged for a minimum of 12 years in wooden barrels.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add balsamic vinegar for its distinctive sweet and tangy flavor. It is commonly used in salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and as a finishing drizzle for dishes.
Health notes
Balsamic vinegar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is primarily composed of acetic acid and sugars, and at typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated vinegar and its components, but no specific numeric limits for balsamic vinegar itself have been set.
Allergen info
Balsamic vinegar is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.