Apple cider vinegar, once a humble pantry item, has been elevated to a kitchen necessity in recent years. It boasts a seemingly endless array of health and beauty benefits, like weight loss, boosting your immune system, and glowing skin. People sing its praises like the dad in My Big Fat Greek Wedding talks about Windex. (Only, unlike Windex, there's actually evidence to back up the benefits of ACV.) Basically, we're obsessed.

But how, exactly, should one store ACV to reap the maximum benefits? Specifically, does it need to be refrigerated?

Short answer: no. Apple cider vinegar does not need to be refrigerated. The acidity of the vinegar effectively ensures that no bacteria will grow in it. Plus, vinegar is itself a preservative — which negates any need to preserve it by putting it in the fridge. It is recommended, however, that you store it in a cool place away from direct sunlight to keep the quality and flavour.

Just remember: though ACV has a multitude of benefits, you shouldn't guzzle it like you're a thirsty politician in the middle of an important speech. Here's how to know how much ACV you should drink.