Characterization of Solubilization of Insoluble Calcium and Magnesium with Various Kinds of Vinegar

Abstract

Vinegar has been known to solubilize insoluble calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) in food, however, the difference in solubilization ability among various kinds of vinegar has not been investigated. In this study, solubilization of Ca and Mg from coral powder and beef bone powder was compared with several kinds of vinegar. Calcium solubilization was observed to be high in grain vinegar, cider vinegar and wine vinegar, and low in rice vinegar and un-polished rice vinegar. On the other hand, magnesium solubilization was high in rice vinegar, wine vinegar and cider vinegar, and low in grain vinegar and un-polished rice vinegar. Calcium solubilization of coral powder was significantly negatively correlated with the pH of vinegar, while Mg solubilization was not. Comparison of solubilization of Ca in un-polished rice vinegar and acetic acid solution suggested that the phosphorus content was also responsible for solubilization in un-polished vinegar. These results suggest that ingredients in vinegar, as well as acidity and pH, affect solubilization of Ca and Mg from food when cooked with vinegar.