Bragg is one of the most popular apple cider vinegar (ACV) brands, but is it the best? Today I’ll be comparing it to Filsinger’s – a proudly Canadian company that makes some pretty good apple cider vinegar. Which is better? Let’s find out
Comparing Bragg and Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar
Both Bragg and Filsinger’s ACVs are made from organic apples, undergo minimal processing (raw and unfiltered), and contain the “mother”.
Bragg’s apple cider vinegar has gained recognition for its long-standing reputation and health-focused marketing. Filsinger’s, on the other hand, is a Canadian family-owned brand that also produces organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and a commitment to traditional production methods.
| Bragg | Filsinger’s | |
| Ingredients | Organic apple cider vinegar, water | Organic apples |
| Organic? | Yes | Yes |
| Non-GMO? | Yes | Yes |
| Raw/unpasteurized? | Yes | Yes |
| Unfiltered (contains the mother)? | Yes | Yes |
| Acidity (% acetic acid by volume) | 5% | 5% |
| Color/appearance | Cloudy, medium amber, sediment | Cloudy, medium amber, no sediment |
| Taste | Strong, tart, little apple flavor | Strong, tart, dry, appley |
| Price (USD) | $4.39 | $4.37 |
| Serving size Servings per container | 1 tbsp 31 | 1 tbsp 63 |
| Packaging | Glass | Glass |
Differences between Bragg and Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar
Appearance
Both Bragg and Filsinger’s are a medium amber color and have that characteristic cloudiness from the mother. But if you look closely, you’ll notice that Bragg’s has a tad more dark sediment suspended in it compared to Filsinger’s.
Flavor profile
Bragg’s ACV has a tangy and sharp taste, with a little apple flavor. It has a robust and pungent acidity, which I find quite strong. Filsinger’s ACV, on the other hand, has a slightly milder and smoother taste with more apple flavor. It’s still tangy but may be less intense than Bragg’s. I find Filsinger’s to be more palatable for everyday use and as an ingredient in recipes, while Bragg’s may be better for its strong, distinctive taste when used sparingly or for its potential health benefits.
Packaging
Bragg typically comes in a 473 mL glass bottle, while Filsinger’s is in a large 945 mL bottle (or larger). That’s right, folks, Filsinger’s gives you twice the amount for your dollar! So, if you’re looking for value for your money, Filsinger’s has a clear advantage.
Price
Speaking of value, let’s talk price. Despite offering twice the volume, Filsinger’s is often priced comparably to Bragg. This means you pay less for a bottle that’s twice as big.
However, there’s a catch here. Bragg has a significant advantage when it comes to availability. You can easily find Bragg’s apple cider vinegar on platforms like Amazon and in various stores worldwide. Filsinger’s, on the other hand, is proudly Canadian, which might limit its availability outside of Canada.
Ways to use Bragg and Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar
Bragg and Filsinger’s can be used interchangeably in various culinary applications. Here are some of my favorite ways to make the most of these fantastic apple cider vinegars:
- Salad dressings: The classic use of apple cider vinegar. Mix it with olive oil, a dash of honey, and your favorite herbs to create a delicious dressing for your salads.
- Marinades: ACV adds a tangy punch to your marinades. It also helps tenderize meat.
- Pickles: Just like regular vinegar, ACV is great for pickling vegetables.
- Smoothies: Add a splash to your morning smoothie to reap the benefits of ACV!
- Digestive aid: Dilute a small amount of ACV in water and drink it before meals to aid digestion.
- Hair and skin care: ACV is not just for your kitchen. It’s also used in DIY beauty treatments to promote healthy hair and skin.
Nutrition: Bragg vs Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar
Looking at their nutrition facts in the table below, you’ll see that Filsinger’s has twice as much potassium as Bragg, offering 20 mg per tablespoon compared to Bragg’s 10 mg.
Other than that, both Bragg and Filsinger’s apple cider vinegars provide you with the wholesome benefits of the mother. The ‘mother’ contains beneficial probiotics and enzymes that can aid digestion, boost your immune system, and support overall gut health. So, you’re in good hands with either choice.
| Per 1 tbsp (15 mL) | Bragg | Filsinger’s |
| Calories | 1 | 0 |
| Fat (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Carbs (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Protein (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 1 | 0 |
| Potassium (mg) | 10 | 20 |
How to store Bragg and Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar
Both Bragg and Filsinger’s should be stored in a cool, dark place. Exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures can affect the quality of your ACV. Make sure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering.
If you’ve had your apple cider vinegar for a while and notice that it has started to develop a white, cloudy sediment at the bottom of the bottle, don’t worry! This is a natural occurrence and is a sign that your vinegar is raw and unfiltered. Simply shake the bottle before use to redistribute the sediment and enjoy the full benefits of the ‘mother.’
Bragg vs Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar: Which is better
I have to say that I prefer Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar. For me, Filsinger’s wins with its taste, impressive value for the money, and higher potassium content. It’s a top-quality organic product that is not just on par with Bragg’s – it’s even better. The only downside is that it might not be as widely available if you’re outside of Canada.
FAQs
The best apple cider vinegar can vary depending on personal preferences and intended use. However, it’s best to go with an organic, raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the “mother” as it contains beneficial enzymes and bacteria, and brands like Bragg, Lucy’s, and Filsinger’s are popular choices.
Yes. The main differences between Bragg’s apple cider vinegar and other brands typically lie in their production methods, organic certification, “mother” content, and reputation.
Yes, Bragg is widely recognized as a reputable brand of apple cider vinegar. They are known for their organic, raw, unfiltered, and unpasteurized ACV, which contains the valuable ‘mother.’ It’s a trusted choice for many consumers.
No, not all brands of apple cider vinegar are the same. While many offer similar qualities, such as being organic and raw, there can be variations in taste, packaging, price, and nutritional content. It’s essential to read labels and do some taste testing to find the one that suits your preferences.
