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How to Make Ethanoic Acid

You may not know it, but there is likely some ethanoic acid on your pantry shelf. And, you might even enjoy some of it on your salad from time to time. Ethanoic acid is the key ingredient found in vinegar, which is made by fermenting a food item containing carbohydrates and sugar. Although its name implies that a high level of technical expertise may be needed to make the acid, it can be made at home using common household items and fresh fruit juice.

Things You'll Need

Apple cider
Fermenting yeast
Large pot
Cheesecloth
Rubber band
Glass containers

Instructions

- 1
  Pour 1 gallon fresh or store-bought apple cider into a large pot. Divide a cake of fermenting yeast starter into five equal pieces, mixing one portion into the cider until fully dissolved. Yeast cakes come in a standardized size and can be found at winemaking supply stores.
- 2
  Pour the cider into one or more glass containers, each filled approximately 3/4 full. Place three layers of cheesecloth over the top of the container and fasten in place with a rubber band.
- 3
  Store the containers out of direct sunlight, in an area with a temperature of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir the liquid and replace cheesecloth covers daily. The cider will ferment and become vinegar in approximately one month.

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