fruitjuice

Fruit juice is a beverage produced by extracting the liquid from fruit. It can be made from a single fruit or a blend of fruits and is commonly sold as 100% juice or as a juice drink with added water, sweeteners, or flavorings. 100% juice contains no added sugars or other juice beyond what is naturally present; some products are fortified with vitamins or minerals.

Production methods include pressing or crushing the fruit to release juice, followed by clarification, pasteurization, and packaging. Some juices are concentrated for transportation and storage, then reconstituted with water. Not-from-concentrate juice is bottled directly from fresh extraction.

Nutritionally, fruit juice provides vitamins (notably vitamin C) and minerals but also naturally occurring sugars and little or no dietary fiber. High intake of juice can contribute to excess sugar, so many guidelines recommend consuming whole fruit rather than juice when possible.

Storage and labeling: Unopened juice is shelf-stable if properly processed; once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Label terms distinguish 100% juice from juice drinks, and indicate processing such as from concentrate or not-from-concentrate; regulations vary by region.

Common varieties include orange, apple, grape, and pineapple, with many blended or tropical options. Uses include direct consumption as a beverage, culinary flavoring, or as a base for nectars and fortified drinks.