Functional Vinegar-Based Beverages and Their Effects on Health

The production of functional foods has become one of the focal points of advancements in the food industry. The functional beverage market is expected to reach $208.13 billion by 2024, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5%25 from 2022 to 2027. Consumers increasingly recognize the importance of the relationship between diet and health in maintaining overall well-being. Additionally, factors such as fast-paced lifestyles, high consumption of convenience foods, inadequate exercise, and the rising trend of self-medication are considered critical drivers for the growing popularity of functional foods. Research generally supports the idea that certain food components, when consumed as part of a healthy diet, have protective potential against the development of many age-related diseases. These observations have prompted increased research into identifying specific bioactive components in foods, such as antioxidants, that may be responsible for improving and maintaining human health. Vinegar, widely used around the world, can be produced using various methods and raw materials, including grains, wheat, and fruits. Vinegar has been reported to have various health-promoting effects, including immune modulation, suppression of cardiovascular diseases, prevention of appetite increase, and reductions in serum cholesterol levels, arterial stiffness, and blood pressure. With these effects, functional vinegar-based beverages are among the functional drinks of interest due to their potential health benefits, attributed to their rich bioactive components such as acetic acid, polyphenols, flavonoids, and organic acids. Consumption of vinegar-based beverages has been associated with positive effects on metabolic health, such as increasing insulin sensitivity and improving lipid profiles. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of vinegar can enhance immunity and lower infection risk. However, more research is required to assess the long-term effects and potential risks of regular vinegar consumption. Overall, functional vinegar-based beverages offer a valuable contribution to a healthy diet, with the potential to support metabolic health, enhance immunity, and combat oxidative stress. This review discusses the multifaceted health effects of these beverages, focusing particularly on their antioxidant properties, which play a crucial role in mitigating diseases associated with oxidative stress.