Orange juice – only healthy ingredients?

Orange juice is one of the most popular fruit juices due to its rich ingredients, natural vitamin content and sweet and sour taste. The nutritional values of orange juice can vary depending on the brand, production method and type of juice. In general, 100 ml of freshly squeezed orange juice contains approx:

- 9g carbohydrates
- 0.2g fat
- 1g protein
- 1g fiber
- 20mg vitamin C

Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system during and after intensive physical activity. Orange juice also contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium. A mineral deficiency often causes mood disorders such as listlessness, concentration problems, tiredness, headaches, visual disturbances or dizziness.

Orange juice contains only the fruit's own sugar in the form of glucose, fructose and sucrose. As with other fruit juices, no additives or sugar are generally added.

Difference between concentrate and direct juice

When producing orange juice from concentrate, the juice is first squeezed from the oranges. Most of the water is then removed to create a concentrated product. This concentrate is often cooled and frozen for transportation. Before it is sold, water is added back to the concentrated juice to dilute it to its original liquid content. It is a legal requirement that the flavorings that have been removed must also be added back. This rearomatization is necessary to restore the full flavour of the juice. The advantage of orange juice from concentrate is that it has a longer shelf life and is easy to transport.

Direct juice is pressed directly from fresh oranges without any water being removed or added. Before it is bottled, it is often pasteurized to extend its shelf life. As a rule, direct juice retains more of the fruit's natural flavors and nutrients as it is less processed than juice from concentrate. Many consumers prefer it for its fresher taste and potentially higher nutrient density.

Vitamin C can degrade during long storage periods, light and heat. The vitamin C content in direct juice must be at least 200 mg/l by the end of the best-before date. The main difference between concentrate and direct juice is the processing process and the degree of processing, with direct juice being considered more natural, while orange juice from concentrate can often be offered at a lower price. According to Ökotest, direct juices taste "like freshly squeezed" when chilled.

Pesticides and residues

The plant disease citrus greening, which is transmitted by the Asian citrus leaf flea, is particularly widespread in the growing regions. Citrus greening occurs mainly in citrus-growing areas in subtropical and tropical regions, such as Florida, Brazil and China. Due to global trade and the consequences of the climate crisis, the Asian citrus miner is easily transmitted. If organ trees are affected by citrus greening, they can no longer absorb nutrients. The fruit does not ripen, which leads to major economic losses in the citrus industry. Orange juice becomes scarce and therefore more expensive for consumers.

Orange juice may contain small amounts of pesticide residues, as pesticides are often used in the production of fruit. In most cases, orange juices must comply with strict safety standards and be regularly tested for pesticide residues. It is recommended to buy organic orange juice to minimize the risk of pesticide residues. Other residues above the legal maximum levels are rarely if ever detectable.

Tentamus laboratories can help

Fruit and vegetable juices and all types of soft drinks can be subjected to flavor analysis, residue analysis and microbiological tests in the Tentamus Group laboratories. In various chemical-physical tests, the products are examined for their marketability. The concentrations of ingredients tested are compared with the requirements of the AIJN CoP Guidelines. Adulterations, such as the addition of foreign water in direct juice or the addition of prohibited sugars or acids, are detected by isotope analysis. NMR screening provides a rapid, far-reaching statement about the authenticity, quality and origin of the juices.

Parameters from the CoP, such as the content of ethanol, lactic acid and volatile acid, provide information about the hygienic condition of the juices. They specify a minimum requirement for the ascorbic acid content and maximum requirements for HMF and essential oils. In addition, the maximum concentrations of heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium) and arsenic are also listed in the absolute quality requirements. All other parameters in the CoP Guidelines stand for the assessment of identity and authenticity. Expert knowledge supported by databases is necessary for the assessment of analytical data in order to be able to correctly evaluate deviating values and fluctuations.

The Tentamus Group laboratories ensure that the tested products are authentic orange juice that meets the legal requirements.