Pickles are foods that are preserved through the process of fermentation or by storing in an acid solution like vinegar. This process prevents spoilage by lowering the pH level. Pickling began thousands of years ago in India as a way to preserve foods for later consumption or long journeys. Common pickling methods include brining vegetables in salt water, quick-pickling in vinegar, or covering foods in oil. Properly made pickles provide flavor while preventing spoilage from microbes. However, pickles can spoil if the proper acidity or salt levels are not achieved. Common vegetables and fruits pickled include cucumbers, mangoes, chilies, and garlic.