Balsamic Vinegar "substitute" '

Combine equal parts molasses or brown rice syrup and lemon juice with a little soy sauce, provides for a pleasing substitute.

Pro & Con's

Balsamic vinegar is a little less acidic than other vinegars, but it still has the potential to erode tooth enamel. Any food or beverage that has a pH of 4 or lower can wear away tooth enamel, and balsamic vinegar's pH is right around 4.

Acid is a bigger problem if you use traditional balsamic vinegar because it's usually drizzled directly onto foods. Less-expensive brands are mixed with oils for salad dressing or added to foods, so the acid impact is reduced.

You can minimize damage from acid by drinking water to rinse your mouth and waiting an hour before brushing your teeth.

Concerns About Lead

Two-thirds of all the vinegars tested in California contained more lead than allowed under state regulations. When 58 balsamic vinegars were tested again several years later, researchers confirmed that the aged varieties had nearly three times more lead than less-expensive varieties

Simple Solution:

Don't overdo it.