

These often include added flavors or sweeteners to compensate for a lack of whole fruit.Īgain, reading nutrition labels is key. Products sold as concentrated fruit cocktail, punch, or beverage are made from a blend of juices. Concentrated fruit cocktail, punch, or beverage

If you’re concerned about flavorings or preservatives, be sure to check the ingredient list. However, they may still harbor additives. 100% fruit concentrateĬoncentrates made from 100% fruit are the healthiest option, as they pack the most nutrients and are only sweetened with natural fruit sugars - not added sugar. There are several types of concentrate, some healthier than others. Additives are often used to boost flavor and prevent spoiling. Juice concentrate is most commonly made by evaporating the water from crushed or juiced fruits. Some concentrates are also treated to remove harmful microbes, thereby enhancing shelf life ( 1). Artificial colors and aromas may be added as well ( 1). What’s more, sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are frequently added to fruit juice concentrates, while sodium may be added to vegetable juice blends. Most of the water content is then extracted and evaporated ( 1).īecause the fruit’s natural flavor may become diluted as a result, many companies use additives like flavor packs, which are artificial compounds made from fruit byproducts ( 1). To make juice concentrate, whole fruits are thoroughly washed, scrubbed, and crushed or blended to produce a pulp. Juice concentrates are sold at room temperature or frozen and meant to be diluted in filtered water before consumption ( 1, 2). Most concentrates are filtered, evaporated, and pasteurized, but some may also include additives ( 1). This process likewise cuts packaging, storage, and transportation costs ( 1). When most of this liquid is removed, the result is a thick, syrupy product known as juice concentrate.Įxtracting the water reduces bacterial growth, meaning that concentrate doesn’t spoil as easily as juice. Water can comprise as much as 90% of juice ( 1, 2).
