Properties of Freshly Squeezed Fruit Juices

Fruit juices are common at breakfast and in children’s lunchboxes. For young children, choose pasteurized juice; unpasteurized juice, including fresh-squeezed juice sold by the glass, can be risky for them. However, juices differ: drinks made from concentrate are often high in sugar and additives, while freshly squeezed juices retain much of the fruit’s vitamin content. Freshly squeezed juice is often recommended in winter for its vitamin content. The following sections describe ways to prepare popular juices.

Orange and Carrot Juice

Orange juice is known for its vitamin C content. To preserve as much vitamin C as possible, drink it soon after squeezing. It also contains B vitamins, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Carrot juice adds an orange color and mild sweetness when mixed with fruit juices. Fresh juice carries the fruit’s sweet and tart flavors into the drink.

Pomegranate, Apple, and Tomato Juice

Pomegranate juice’s tart flavor works in cold drinks and sauces. Apple juice can add sweetness to fruit drinks and some desserts. Tomato juice can be used in savory drinks and as a soup base. Adjust its salt and flavor balance to suit the other ingredients; people with high blood pressure should discuss their intake with a doctor.

Grapefruit and Pineapple Juice

Grapefruit juice is tart, while pineapple juice offers a sweet-tart option. Grapefruit can interact with some medications and change their effects. People who take medication regularly should consult their doctor before drinking grapefruit juice. Pineapple juice can be mixed into other drinks for its fruity flavor.

What to Keep in Mind When Making Fresh Juice

Wash fruit thoroughly under running water before juicing to remove residue from the peel. To minimize vitamin loss, drink the juice soon after squeezing; exposure to air can quickly affect its color and nutritional value. When using a juicer or blender, allowing some of the fruit pulp to remain in the drink can increase fiber intake. Pulp-containing juice may keep you full longer than clear, strained juice.

How Much Juice Should You Drink?

The amount of fruit used to make juice affects its sweetness. People with diabetes or stomach conditions should determine how much juice to drink with their doctor. Choose juice made with fresh, seasonal fruit when possible, and avoid packaged products with added sugar.