In the world of apple cider vinegar, two names stand out – Bragg and Allen’s. These household staples have gained popularity for their potential health benefits, culinary applications, and versatile uses.
But when it comes to choosing the best apple cider vinegar for your needs, how do these two brands compare?
In this article, I’ll dive into the characteristics, quality, and uses of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar and Allen’s to determine the ultimate verdict on which one deserves a place in your pantry. Let’s get started!

Comparing Bragg and Allen’s apple cider vinegar
Bragg and Allen’s apple cider vinegar differ significantly. Bragg is raw, organic, and unfiltered, boasting a bold flavor with “the mother,” while Allen’s is more refined, lighter in taste, and budget-friendly, lacking “the mother.” Your choice depends on your preference for a natural vinegar (Bragg) or a more economical option (Allen’s).
Bragg | Allen’s | |
Ingredients | Organic apple cider vinegar, water | Apple cider vinegar |
Organic? | Yes | No |
Non-GMO? | Yes | No |
Raw/unpasteurized? | Yes | No |
Unfiltered (contains the mother)? | Yes | No |
Acidity (% acetic acid by volume) | 5% | 5% |
Color/appearance | Cloudy, amber, sediment | Clear, light amber, no sediment |
Taste | Strong, tart, little apple flavor | Mild, vinegary, little apple flavor |
Price (USD) | $4.39 | $4.59 |
Serving size Servings per container | 1 tbsp 31 | 1 tbsp 266 |
Packaging | Glass | Plastic |
Differences between Bragg and Allen’s apple cider vinegar
Processing
First things first, let’s talk about how these vinegars are made. Bragg prides itself on being organic, raw, unfiltered, and unpasteurized. It’s the real deal, complete with what’s known as “the mother.” On the flip side, Allen’s takes a different approach. It’s more refined and lacks the raw, unfiltered nature of Bragg. If you’re looking for a more traditional, natural vinegar, Bragg’s the one to go for.
Appearance
One look at these two vinegar bottles, and you’ll notice a stark contrast. Bragg boasts a cloudy, amber hue with visible sediments floating about. It’s a sign that this is a natural, unprocessed product. Allen’s, on the other hand, is clearer and lighter in color.
Flavor profile
Bragg’s apple cider vinegar has a robust, bold flavor. It’s tart, with just the right balance between sour and sweet. The presence of “the mother” adds depth. Allen’s, while still undeniably vinegary, lacks the complex flavor of Bragg. I find it’s more straightforward and sharp, with little apple flavor or sweetness.
Packaging
The battle doesn’t stop at what’s inside the bottle. Bragg comes packaged in a sturdy glass bottle, which helps maintain the quality. Allen’s, on the other hand, is packaged in a plastic container, which can be permeable to the vinegar’s acidity, potentially leading to the release of chemicals into the liquid.
Price
Allen’s is the budget-friendly option, making it a more attractive choice for the budget-conscious shopper. Bragg, on the other hand, often comes at a premium price due to its organic and raw qualities.
Bragg is also widely distributed and can be found in most health food stores and supermarkets. You can also buy it online. Allen’s may not be as widely available, depending on where you live.
Ways to use Bragg and Allen’s apple cider vinegar
Now that you know the key differences between Bragg and Allen’s, let’s talk about how to put these apple cider vinegars to good use:
- Salad dressing: Both Bragg and Allen’s make excellent salad dressings. A simple vinaigrette with olive oil, ACV, and your favorite herbs can elevate any salad.
- Detox drink: Start your day with a detox drink by mixing a tablespoon of your chosen vinegar with water or make one of these tasty drinks!
- Cooking: These vinegars can add a delightful tang to your recipes. From marinades to sauces, they’re a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
- Hair rinse: Believe it or not, apple cider vinegar can work wonders for your hair. Dilute it with water and use it as a final rinse for shiny, silky locks.
- Skin toner: Many people swear by apple cider vinegar as a natural toner. Dilute it with water and use it to balance your skin’s pH.
Nutrition: Bragg vs Allen’s apple cider vinegar
Both Bragg and Allen’s offer some nutritional value, but let’s see how they stack up against each other.
Bragg’s nutritional profile:
- Low in calories
- Contains potassium
- Has small amounts of iron
- The “mother” in Bragg is rich in probiotics
Allen’s nutritional profile:
- Low in calories
- Contains potassium
- Lacks the “mother,” so no probiotics
When it comes to nutrition, Bragg emerges as the winner. The presence of “the mother” provides an extra boost of probiotics, which can support gut health and digestion. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your apple cider vinegar in terms of health benefits, Bragg is the better choice.
Per 1 tbsp (15 mL) | Bragg | Allen’s |
Calories | 1 | 0 |
Fat (g) | 0 | 0 |
Carbs (g) | 0 | 0 |
Protein (g) | 0 | 0 |
Sodium (mg) | 1 | 0 |
Potassium (mg) | 10 | 10 |
How to store Bragg and Allen’s apple cider vinegar
Keep your apple cider vinegar in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes, like near the stove or in the fridge. Always tighten the cap or lid after use to prevent air from getting in.
Note: It’s normal for sediment to settle at the bottom of the bottle. A quick shake before use will distribute it evenly.
Apple cider vinegar doesn’t typically expire, but its quality may decline over time. It’s best to consume it within 5 years.
Bragg vs Allen’s apple cider vinegar: The ultimate verdict
The winner is clear: Bragg is the top apple cider vinegar. It’s best for those who value a raw, unfiltered, and organic product with the added bonus of probiotics from “the mother.”
However, Allen’s offers a more budget-friendly option for those on a tighter budget. If you’re new to the world of apple cider vinegar and want to dip your toes in without breaking the bank, Allen’s is a reasonable choice.
FAQs
Yes, Bragg’s apple cider vinegar is often considered better than regular vinegar because it is raw, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and organic. It contains “the mother,” which is a colony of beneficial bacteria and enzymes that can provide additional health benefits.
Yes, Bragg is a well-respected brand of apple cider vinegar known for its high-quality, organic, and raw products. Many people trust Bragg for its purity and health benefits.
The choice of apple cider vinegar tablets depends on your specific needs and preferences. Look for reputable brands that offer high-quality, pure apple cider vinegar in tablet form. It’s a good idea to read product reviews and consult with a healthcare professional before using any dietary supplements.
The brand of apple cider vinegar you choose can matter, as the processing and quality can vary. Brands like Bragg are known for their quality and health benefits due to their organic and raw nature. However, the best brand for you depends on your personal preferences and needs.
I recently learned about cider eels, live eels in unfiltered vinegar. Does Bragg’s have them?
Just asking,,when using Apple vinegar with the mother,,does it help to finish the belly???
Hi Mercy, some people say that drinking apple cider vinegar with the mother helps with belly fat, but there isn’t enough research to confirm this.
Good study. Bragg’s is my choice for anything, detox or hair or skin! It’s keeps well and it’s available wherever I go. Excellent work!
Thanks Pamela! Glad you enjoyed the review.
Isn’t it true that braggs these days is make with organic apples coated with apeel?
It’s important these days to make that distinction
Being organic doesn’t eliminate the use of apeel anymore
Thanks Anna! On their website Bragg states “No, we do not use Apeel or Organipeel on apples used for ACV.”