What is fruit juice concentrate and is it healthier than not from concentrate juice?! Fruit juice concentrate is fruit juice that has had a large part of the water removed. Depending on the variety, fruit juice concentrates can provide a number of essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. The process of creating concentrated fruit juice requires modern processing techniques and the question is whether concentrated fruit juice is healthy and how is it different from unconcentrated juice.
Concentrate vs not from concentrate juice
Many people may think that juice is not from concentrate is better than juice that is from concentrate. However, if no additional ingredients, such as sugar and chemical preservatives, are added to a “from concentrate” juice, it’s as same as a juice that’s not from concentrate.
What is not from concentrate juice?
In fruit juices, water can make up 90% of the ingredients. When most of the water is removed, a thick, syrupy product is called juice concentrate. The removal of water helps reduce bacterial growth, so concentrated juices don’t spoil as easily as regular juices. This process also cuts down on product packaging, storage and transportation costs.
There are many methods of processing juices into concentrates. Most of the time, they are filtered, dried and pasteurized, but sometimes additives are also added. Concentrated juice can be stored at room temperature or frozen and diluted in filtered water before use.
How is concentrated juice produced?
To make the concentrated juice, the whole fruit is thoroughly washed, wiped and juiced. Much of the water content is then extracted and evaporated. Some juice concentrates are also treated to remove harmful bacteria to extend their shelf life.
Concentrated juices
There are many juice concentrates on the market, some healthier than others.
100% fruit juice concentrate
Concentrated juices made from 100% fruit are the healthiest choice, as they contain the most nutrients and are naturally sweet.
Cocktails, juices or concentrated fruit drinks
These products are sold as concentrated fruit cocktails, juices, or drinks made with juice blends. They often have added flavorings or sweeteners to enhance the taste.
Health benefits
Orange, pineapple and apple juice products (including juice concentrates) are increasingly popular, with orange juice accounting for more than 41% of the global fruit juice market. Concentrated juices can be a good option because they are usually cheap and easy to store. They may also offer a number of health benefits.
Rich in nutrients
Fruit juice concentrates are healthy if made with 100% fruit or vegetables. One 120 ml glass of orange juice prepared from concentrated water provides 280% of the daily essential vitamin C. This nutrient plays an important role in the body’s immunity and wound healing.
100% plant-based carrot juice concentrate is a rich source of vitamin A, providing 400% of the recommended daily amount per 240 ml serving.
Health benefits
Orange, pineapple and apple juice products (including juice concentrates) are increasingly popular, with orange juice accounting for more than 41% of the global fruit juice market. Concentrated juices can be a good option because they are usually cheap and easy to store. They may also offer a number of health benefits.
Rich in nutrients
Fruit juice concentrates are healthy if made with 100% fruit or vegetables. One 120 ml glass of orange juice prepared from concentrated water provides 280% of the daily essential vitamin C. This nutrient plays an important role in the body’s immunity and wound healing.
100% plant-based carrot juice concentrate is a rich source of vitamin A, providing 400% of the recommended daily amount per 240 ml serving.
Contains beneficial plant compounds
The juice concentrate contains many plant compounds, such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. These compounds provide many health benefits such as cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory.
The flavonoids in orange juice may help prevent obesity-related chronic inflammation. In a study, obese people who drank orange juice after meals for at least seven consecutive days showed signs of reduced inflammation. One study in obese adults found that supplementing with a mixture of fruit and vegetable juice concentrates for 8 weeks reduced inflammation and blood LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing muscle mass.
Improve skin condition
Many juice concentrates are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can promote skin health and slow the aging process. For example, beta carotene in carrots and tomatoes has been shown to reduce skin inflammation.
Shelf life and price
Concentrated juice can be a reasonable substitute for regular juice, thanks to its long shelf life and ease of storage. Therefore, they are very convenient for those who cannot afford to use fresh fruits or vegetables.
Potential disadvantages
Juice and juice concentrates may not be the best choice for everyone. In general, they lack fiber compared to fresh fruit and may have added sugar. Some varieties have added sugar and preservatives. If possible, eat both fruits and vegetables instead. Even healthy juices from concentrates should be consumed in moderation.
Additionally, juice concentrates typically contain more carbs and calories per serving than whole fruit. For example, one medium orange (131 grams) has 62 calories and 15 grams of carbs, while a 240-ml glass of orange juice made with 100% fruit concentrate has 110 calories and 24 grams of carbs. This is because squeezing fruit to make a serving of a drink requires more fruit than when eaten normally. Additives such as sweeteners also have calories.
If you want to buy juice concentrate, look for one made with 100% juice. Vinut is a leading beverage manufacturer which can supply all ODM/OEM services as your wish. Contact us for more information and to have good quality products.
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