How Many Calories in Apple Cider Vinegar? Nutrition Facts & Macros
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (15 g) has 3 calories
Protein 0g · Carbs 0.1g · Fat 0g
Apple cider vinegar has become one of the most popular diet trends — but what does it actually contain? At just 21 kcal per 100 g (about 3 kcal per tablespoon), it is nearly calorie-free. The main active component is acetic acid (~5%), which is responsible for most of the claimed health benefits: blood sugar control, appetite suppression, and gut health support. Apple cider vinegar is 94% water.
88 kJ · per 100g · Water: 93.81 g
Calorie Calculator: Apple Cider Vinegar
15 g Apple Cider Vinegar contains 3 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon (15 g) | 3 kcal | 0g | 0.1g | 0g |
| 1 teaspoon (5 g) | 1 kcal | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| 100 grams | 21 kcal | 0g | 0.9g | 0g |
Apple Cider Vinegar — Nutrition Facts
| Apple Cider Vinegar | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 21 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Carbs | 0.93 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.4 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 73 mg |
| Calcium | 7 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 8 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Zinc | 0.04 mg |
| Manganese | 0.249 mg |
| Selenium | 0.1 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0 mg |
| Folate | 0 mcg |
| Water | 93.81 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 173469) · Data verified September 2026
Variations
Raw, unfiltered with "mother" (default)
21 kcal per 100 g. Cloudy appearance from the "mother" — a colony of acetic acid bacteria and cellulose. Contains trace probiotics and enzymes. Same calorie and macronutrient content as filtered, but may offer additional gut health benefits. Shake before use.
Filtered, clear
21 kcal per 100 g. Clear, amber-colored liquid. The "mother" has been removed through filtration and pasteurization. Same calories and macros as raw unfiltered. Contains less probiotics and enzymes. Longer shelf life and more consistent flavor. Most common in supermarkets.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Nearly zero calories — 1 tablespoon (15 g) has just 3 kcal. Some studies suggest acetic acid may slightly reduce appetite and improve blood sugar control after meals, but the effects are modest. Not a magic weight loss solution — no food is. The real benefit: ACV in salad dressings replaces calorie-dense dressings. Dilute 1–2 tablespoons in water before meals if you want to try it. Always dilute — never drink straight.
For Athletic Performance
Not nutritionally significant for sports. The potassium (73 mg/100 g) is minimal per tablespoon — about 11 mg. Some athletes use diluted ACV for gut health and alkalizing effects, but evidence is limited. Not harmful in moderate amounts. Better to focus on real food for nutrition and electrolytes. If you use it, dilute in water and avoid it close to training — the acidity may cause stomach discomfort during exercise.
For Keto
Perfectly keto — 0.93 g carbs per 100 g, meaning 1 tablespoon has only ~0.1 g carbs. Use freely in keto salad dressings, marinades, and diluted drinks. The acetic acid may support blood sugar stability, which benefits ketosis. Mix with olive oil for a virtually zero-carb salad dressing. Some keto dieters drink 1 tablespoon diluted in water before meals to support appetite control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar contains 21 calories per 100 g. A typical serving — one tablespoon (15 g) — has only about 3 calories. This makes it essentially calorie-free in normal cooking and drinking amounts. Even drinking 2 tablespoons diluted in water adds just 6 calories.
Does apple cider vinegar help with weight loss?
Some studies suggest acetic acid may modestly reduce appetite and improve post-meal blood sugar control, but the effects are small. A 2009 Japanese study showed 1-2 tablespoons daily led to 1-2 kg loss over 12 weeks versus placebo. It is not a magic weight loss solution. The practical benefit: ACV in salad dressings replaces calorie-dense dressings.
How much apple cider vinegar should I drink per day?
Most studies use 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) per day, diluted in a large glass of water. Never drink it undiluted — the acetic acid can damage tooth enamel and irritate the esophagus. Start with 1 teaspoon and increase gradually. Drinking through a straw can help protect teeth.
What are the health benefits of apple cider vinegar?
Evidence-supported benefits include modest blood sugar reduction after meals (acetic acid slows starch digestion) and mild appetite suppression. It has antimicrobial properties useful in food preservation. Claims about cancer prevention, heart health, and detoxification lack strong clinical evidence. It contains trace minerals: 73 mg potassium and 5 mg magnesium per 100 g.
Is apple cider vinegar keto-friendly?
Perfectly keto-friendly. Apple cider vinegar has only 0.93 g of carbs per 100 g — a tablespoon contains about 0.1 g of net carbs. Use freely in salad dressings, marinades, and diluted drinks. The acetic acid may support blood sugar stability, which benefits ketosis.
Can apple cider vinegar damage teeth or stomach?
Yes, if used improperly. Undiluted apple cider vinegar (pH ~3) can erode tooth enamel and irritate the throat, esophagus, and stomach lining. Always dilute in water (1-2 tbsp per 250 ml). Avoid brushing teeth immediately after drinking. People with GERD, ulcers, or gastroparesis should consult a doctor before regular use.
Compare with Similar Foods
| Portion | kcal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 21 | 0g | 0.93g | 0g |
| Lemon | 29 | 1.1g | 9.32g | 0.3g |
| Olive Oil | 884 | 0g | 0g | 100g |
| Soy Sauce | 53 | 8.14g | 4.93g | 0.57g |
| Mustard (Yellow) | 60 | 3.74g | 5.83g | 3.34g |
per 100g
Apple cider vinegar has 21 kcal per 100 g — similar to white vinegar (18 kcal) and much less than balsamic vinegar (88 kcal). Compared to lemon juice (22 kcal per 100 g), the calorie content is nearly identical, but lemon juice provides 39 mg of vitamin C while ACV has none.