Acidic Liquids Overview

Many acidic liquids can likely be found in either your refrigerator or your cleaning supply closet. Acids can be found in natural fruit juices, cleaning liquids and other sources. Acidic liquid is an important culinary ingredient, as it is often used in marinades and salad dressings.

Fruit Juice

Acidic liquids have low pH levels. Many fruit juices qualify as acidic liquids. Some of the more acidic fruit juices are orange juice, lemon juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice and red currant juice. These fruit juices are often used in marinades for meats, particularly tougher cuts of meats because their acidic nature helps to break down and tenderize the meat. Be careful when marinating meat with acidic fruit juices, however, because the acid can actually begin to cook the meat. This is especially true for meats like shrimp and fish, so don’t leave the acidic juice on for long.

Cleaners

Lots of different household cleaners contain acids that help remove stains, dirt and grime. The most commonly used acidic household cleaner is bleach. Reducing bleach uses acids to turn the stain into a water soluble substance that can easily be cleaned. Toilet cleaners, tile cleaners and window cleaners also contain acids.

Vinegar

Vinegar is another type of acidic liquid. There are many different types of vinegar, as it can be made out of any liquid containing sugar. Some examples of common vinegars are apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, rice wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar and white distilled vinegar. Vinegar is used in many foods, such as pickles, marinades and salad dressings. Vinegar is also often used in cleaners as its acids can cut through grease and grime.