Why is orange juice from concentrate bad for your health? the answer will surprise you
What To Know
- Orange juice from concentrate is made by removing the water from fresh orange juice and adding it back later.
- As a result, the concentrate contains only a fraction of the nutrients found in fresh orange juice.
- The table below compares the nutritional content of fresh orange juice and orange juice from concentrate.
Orange juice is a popular breakfast drink, but is it really as healthy as we think? When it comes to orange juice from concentrate, the answer is a resounding no. Here’s why:
1. Nutrient Depletion
Orange juice from concentrate is made by removing the water from fresh orange juice and adding it back later. This process strips the juice of its essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. As a result, the concentrate contains only a fraction of the nutrients found in fresh orange juice.
2. Added Sugars
To make up for the lost nutrients, orange juice from concentrate is often sweetened with added sugars, such as high-fructose corn syrup. These sugars provide empty calories and contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems.
3. Preservatives and Additives
To extend its shelf life, orange juice from concentrate contains preservatives and additives, such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate. These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including allergic reactions, asthma, and hyperactivity.
4. Artificial Flavors and Colors
To enhance its taste and appearance, orange juice from concentrate often contains artificial flavors and colors. These additives are not only unnecessary, but they can also be harmful to health. Artificial flavors have been linked to cancer, while artificial colors have been associated with hyperactivity and developmental disorders.
5. Pasteurization
Orange juice from concentrate is typically pasteurized to kill harmful bacteria. However, this process also destroys beneficial enzymes and antioxidants, reducing the juice’s nutritional value.
6. Environmental Concerns
The production of orange juice from concentrate has significant environmental implications. The removal of water from fresh orange juice requires large amounts of energy, and the disposal of the concentrated waste can pollute waterways.
7. Ethical Concerns
The production of orange juice from concentrate often involves unethical practices, such as the use of pesticides, poor working conditions, and low wages for farmers. By choosing fresh orange juice, you can support sustainable and fair farming practices.
Fresh Orange Juice vs. Orange Juice from Concentrate
The table below compares the nutritional content of fresh orange juice and orange juice from concentrate:
| Nutrient | Fresh Orange Juice | Orange Juice from Concentrate |
| — | — | — |
| Vitamin C | 124% DV | 100% DV |
| Potassium | 10% DV | 5% DV |
| Folate | 15% DV | 5% DV |
| Added Sugars | 0 grams | 10-15 grams |
| Preservatives | None | Sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate |
| Artificial Flavors | None | Often present |
| Artificial Colors | None | Often present |
The Bottom Line: Choose Fresh
When it comes to orange juice, fresh is always best. Fresh orange juice is packed with essential nutrients, contains no added sugars or preservatives, and supports sustainable farming practices. Orange juice from concentrate, on the other hand, is nutrient-depleted, sweetened with added sugars, and contains potentially harmful preservatives and additives.
Questions You May Have
Q: Is all orange juice from concentrate?
A: No, you can find fresh orange juice in the refrigerated section of grocery stores.
Q: How can I tell if orange juice is from concentrate?
A: Check the ingredient list. If it contains “concentrated orange juice,” it is from concentrate.
Q: What are some alternatives to orange juice?
A: Other healthy breakfast drinks include smoothies, green tea, and water with lemon.
