Medically reviewed by Femi Aremu, PharmD Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is the fermented juice of crushed apples. The sour-tasting liquid is a popular ingredient in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.

Netflix points out that the story is “true-ish,” which is raising a lot of questions about what’s real and what’s made for TV in this fascinating series. So, is the Hirsch Institute real—or, at least, based on a real organization? Here’s the deal.