Buffered vinegar
What is Buffered vinegar?
Buffered vinegar is a form of vinegar that has been treated to reduce its acidity. This is typically achieved by adding a buffering agent, such as sodium acetate or sodium bicarbonate, to neutralise some of the acetic acid. The resulting product has a milder, less sharp flavour than standard vinegar.
Is Buffered vinegar vegan?
Buffered vinegar is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Buffered vinegar gluten-free?
Gluten is not a component.
Is Buffered vinegar a major allergen?
Buffered vinegar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Buffered vinegar used for?
Manufacturers use buffered vinegar primarily as a flavouring agent and preservative.
Is Buffered vinegar safe?
Buffered vinegar, or its components, are authorised food additives in the UK.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use buffered vinegar primarily as a flavouring agent and preservative. Its reduced acidity makes it suitable for products where a strong vinegary taste is undesirable, such as in processed meats and baked goods. It can help to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.
Health notes
Buffered vinegar, or its components, are authorised food additives in the UK. Acetic acid (vinegar) and sodium acetate are permitted for use. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these substances. As with many food additives, extensive research has been conducted, and they are considered safe for consumption within permitted levels. There are no widespread controversies regarding its use at typical dietary levels.
Regulatory status
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.7.4 whey cheese | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.4.1 Fresh pasta | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.4.3 Fresh pre-cooked pasta | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.4.4 Potato Gnocchi | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek | No numerical limit listed |
| 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 | No numerical limit listed |
| 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Buffered vinegar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Gluten is not a component.
Foods that contain Buffered vinegar
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