Juices are a popular drink choice in the UK, offering a refreshing and nutritious option. There are many different types and flavors of juice available, but some stand out as particular favorites among British consumers.
Here is an overview of 10 of the most popular juices in the UK market:
Top 10 Popular Juices
1. Orange Juice
Orange juice is by far the most popular juice in the UK. Its natural sweetness, bright citrus flavor, and vitamin C content make it a breakfast staple for many. Freshly squeezed, not-from-concentrate orange juice is preferred by many for maximum flavor and nutrition. It’s widely available in supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants across the country.
2. Apple Juice
The mellow sweetness and versatility of apple juice make it another top choice. It’s enjoyable on its own, mixed into smoothies, or paired with alcohol for cocktails. Cloudy, unfiltered apple juice retains more nutrients but clear, filtered versions are also common. British apples like Cox’s, Egremont Russet, and Bramley are often used for a local touch.
3. Pineapple Juice
Pineapple juice provides a tropical flair to juices. Its mix of sweetness and acidity makes it thirst-quenching. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. Cans and cartons of pineapple juice can be found in most supermarkets and convenience stores in the UK.
4. Cranberry Juice
This tart, ruby-red juice has risen in popularity due to its purported health benefits. Cranberries are thought to help prevent urinary tract infections. They also contain antioxidants. Cranberry juice is rather sour on its own so many commercial versions add sweeteners. Ocean Spray is a widely recognized cranberry juice brand in British stores.
5. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is one of the most distinct juices, with a savory umami flavor. It’s sometimes mixed with spices and vegetables in “vegetable cocktail” style juices. Tomato juice is often consumed as a hangover cure or alcohol chaser. The classic Bloody Mary cocktail is also a popular way to enjoy tomato juice in the UK.
6. Grapefruit Juice
With its bright, citrusy taste, grapefruit juice is a favorite for breakfast or brunch. It provides a higher vitamin C content than orange juice. Some find it too sour or bitter on its own so it’s often combined with sweeter juices in blends. Pink and red grapefruit varieties are commonly used.
7. Grape Juice
Sweet, fruity grape juice is commonly made from Concord grapes. It has a mild flavor that appeals to children and adults. The juice contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which comes from the grape skin. Many UK grocers carry Muscat and Muscadine grape juices for variety.
8. Prune Juice
Prune juice is made from dried plums and contains high amounts of nutrients like vitamin K and copper. It has a unique, concentrated sweet-tart taste and thick texture. While prune juice can be enjoyed on its own, its natural laxative effect makes it popular as a constipation reliever in the UK. It’s usually found in the juice aisle at supermarkets.
9. Pomegranate Juice
This juice bursts with sweet-tart pomegranate flavor. It has grown in popularity in recent years, known as a good source of antioxidants. There are many juice blends featuring pomegranate such as berry pomegranate, lemon pomegranate, and pomegranate peach. The juice’s distinctive reddish color comes from the arils surrounding the seeds.
10. Blackcurrant Juice
Blackcurrants grow well in the UK climate, so blackcurrant juice is a home-grown favorite. These small berries yield a dark purple juice with a unique, slightly tart taste. It’s quite popular for mixing into juices and smoothies to add color and flavor. The high vitamin C content makes it a staple summer drink to boost immunity.