Worm-Like Creatures Seen In Bottle Of Vinegar At Eatery — Turns Out They're Safe To Consume

Dining out can sometimes come with unexpected surprises. A netizen recently encountered one such surprise when they noticed a swarm of tiny 'worms' wriggling in a bottle of vinegar at an eatery.

They initially mistook the movement for gas bubbles. But upon closer inspection, the sight of countless worm-like organisms gave them goosebumps.

They posted a video of the bottle online as a PSA, warning others to check condiments before use.

However, the netizen was quickly educated by others who recognised the creatures as Turbatrix aceti, commonly known as vinegar eels.

Vinegar eels are a type of roundworm that feed on the live bacteria used to produce vinegar.

They are typically found in unfiltered vinegar or particularly acidic environments like vinegary kombucha.

Commercially produced vinegar usually undergoes a filtration process, eliminating these creatures. However, unfiltered or homemade vinegar may still contain them. 

While some netizens were initially alarmed by the discovery, those familiar with vinegar eels assured them there was nothing to worry about.

In fact, vinegar eels are safe to consume. They are non-parasitic, harmless to the human body, and will be passed out as waste. 

But knowing they're safe doesn't necessarily make them appealing. So, if you were served vinegar containing these tiny creatures, would you still use it?