Fruit-infused vinegar is a popular beverage with the Japanese, especially women in their 20s and 30s, and is readily available in convenience stores and department stores across Japan. One of the main reasons for its popularity is how it leaves the drinker feeling gfullerh and more satisfied, which some people believe helps promote weight loss efforts. In addition, the different types of fruits also offer different health and nutritional benefits to the drinker.
Because fruit vinegar is too sour to be consumed on its own, manufacturers came up with the idea of diluting it with juice from the same fruits, and it proved to be a hit with consumers. Some of the more common flavours include apple, citrus, pear, and blueberry, but there also exists a mind-boggling range of exotic flavours such as lychee, dragonfruit, and rosehip. Initially, sceptics dismissed fruit vinegars as a passing summer fad (like desalinated deep-sea water from Hawaii, for example). However, it looks like the trend is here to stay, with designated vinegar sommeliers at department stores dishing out advice on aroma and clarity.
Drinking fruit vinegar is a nose-tingling and refreshing affair, but it’s not just a delicious thirst-quencher. Many people also elect to sip on the drink after and between meals to aid digestion. This is especially welcomed after a heavy or particularly salty meal. You can also add fruit vinegar to other beverages like seltzer, flat water, tea or even a smoothie, for a delightful sweet-sour pop to your palate.