Apple juice, with added vitamin C, from concentrate, shelf stable

Basic Information

Name:

• Common: Apple Juice
• Scientific: Malus domestica (the species of apple used to produce the juice)

Category:

• Beverage, Fruit Juice

Varieties:

• With Added Vitamin C: Fortified to enhance nutritional value.
• From Concentrate: Made by removing water from the apple juice to create a concentrate, which is then reconstituted by adding water.
• Shelf-Stable: Processed to have a longer shelf life without the need for refrigeration until opened.

Nutritional Information (per 1 cup/240 ml serving)

Macronutrients:

• Carbohydrates: 11.4 grams
• Sugars: 24-26 grams
• Proteins: 0.09 grams
• Fats: 0.2 grams

Micronutrients:

• Vitamins:
• Vitamin C: 100% of the Daily Value (DV), added for fortification.
• Minerals:
• Potassium: 4% DV
• Calcium: Trace amounts (if fortified)
• Iron: Trace amounts

Calorie Count:

• Approximately 110-120 calories per 1 cup (240 ml)

Glycemic Index:

• Moderate, typically around 40-50, depending on the brand and specific processing methods.

Phytonutrients

Apple juice contains several key phytonutrients that contribute to its health benefits:

1. Flavonoids:

• Includes: Quercetin and phloridzin.
• Benefits: Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

2. Phenolic Acids:

• Includes: Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid.
• Benefits: Contribute to reducing inflammation, preventing cancer, and protecting cardiovascular health.

3. Polyphenols:

• Includes: Catechins and epicatechins.
• Benefits: Help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing LDL cholesterol levels.

4. Carotenoids:

• Includes: Beta-carotene.
• Benefits: Support eye health and immune function, and act as antioxidants.

5. Tannins:

• Includes: Proanthocyanidins.
• Benefits: Provide antioxidant benefits, contributing to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

6. Pectin:

• Benefits: A type of soluble fiber found in apples, which helps support digestive health and can aid in lowering cholesterol levels.

These phytonutrients contribute to apple juice’s overall health-promoting properties, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits. The addition of vitamin C further enhances its nutritional value, supporting immune function and providing additional antioxidant protection.

Physical Characteristics

Color:

• Golden yellow to light amber, depending on the variety of apples used and the processing methods.

Shape:

• Liquid, taking the shape of its container.

Size:

• Available in various packaging sizes:
• Single-serving boxes (6.75 oz or 200 ml)
• Medium bottles (32 oz or 946 ml)
• Large bottles or cartons (64 oz or 1.89 liters)

Texture:

• Mouthfeel: Smooth and fluid, typically without any pulp.
• Consistency: Homogeneous and clear, although some brands may offer a cloudy version due to the presence of natural apple particulates.

Aroma and Flavor:

• Aroma: Fresh, sweet apple scent, often with a hint of tartness.
• Flavor: Sweet and slightly tart, characteristic of apples. The added vitamin C may enhance the tartness slightly.

Culinary Uses

Common Dishes:

• Beverages: Consumed as is, chilled or at room temperature.
• Mixed Drinks: Used as a base for cocktails, mocktails, and punch.
• Smoothies: Blended with other fruits and vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cooking: Used in marinades, sauces, and glazes for meats and vegetables.
• Baking: Incorporated into batters and doughs for cakes, muffins, and bread for moisture and flavor.
• Desserts: Used in sorbets, jellies, and as a flavoring agent in various desserts.

Preparation Methods:

• Direct Consumption: Can be drunk cold or at room temperature.
• Mixing: Often mixed with water, sparkling water, or other fruit juices.
• Cooking and Baking: Can be used as a liquid ingredient in recipes to add sweetness and moisture.

Suitable Pairings:

• Fruits: Pairs well with other fruits like berries, bananas, pears, and citrus.
• Herbs and Spices: Complements cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and mint.
• Nuts and Seeds: Works well with walnuts, almonds, and chia seeds in various recipes.
• Proteins: Can be used in marinades and glazes for pork, chicken, and turkey.
• Dairy Alternatives: Mixes well with yogurt, almond milk, and other non-dairy milks in smoothies and desserts.

Geographical Information

Origin:

• Apple juice has a long history, with apples originating in Central Asia. The practice of juicing apples dates back centuries in various cultures, particularly in Europe and North America.

Primary Growing Regions for Apples:

• United States: Particularly Washington, New York, and Michigan.
• Europe: Major producers include Poland, France, Italy, and Germany.
• China: The largest apple producer in the world.
• Other Regions: Canada, Australia, and New Zealand also have significant apple production.

Seasonal Availability:

• Available year-round due to modern agricultural practices, storage, and processing methods. Apples are typically harvested in the fall, but the use of concentrates and preservatives ensures a continuous supply of apple juice throughout the year. Shelf-stable apple juice is designed to last for extended periods without refrigeration, making it a convenient option for long-term storage.

Proximates:
Water	88.1 g
Energy (Atwater General Factors)	48 kcal
Energy (Atwater Specific Factors)	47 kcal
Nitrogen	0.01 g
Protein	0.09 g
Total lipid (fat)	0.29 g
Ash	0.12 g
Carbohydrates:
Carbohydrate, by difference	11.4 g
Sugars, Total	10.3 g
Sucrose	1.39 g
Glucose	3.21 g
Fructose	5.7 g
Lactose	<0.25 g
Maltose	<0.25 g
Galactose	<0.1 g
Organic acids:
Citric acid	<40 mg
Malic acid	360 mg
Oxalic acid	<40 mg
Quinic acid	<40 mg
Minerals:
Calcium, Ca	7 mg
Iron, Fe	0.04 mg
Magnesium, Mg	4.9 mg
Phosphorus, P	6 mg
Potassium, K	96 mg
Sodium, Na	5 mg
Copper, Cu	0.003 mg
Manganese, Mn	0.027 mg
Vitamins and Other Components:
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid	51.2 mg
Thiamin	<0.011 g
Niacin	0.01 mg
Vitamin B-6	0.014 mg
Folate, total	3 µg