Debunking Common Myths About Pasteurized Juices: The Truth Behind Safety and Nutrition
Pasteurized juices often face criticism due to a variety of misconceptions about their nutritional value and safety. Despite their prevalence in the juice market, many consumers remain unclear about how pasteurization affects the quality of the juice they drink. At Lakewood, we pasteurize all of our juices to ensure safety and maintain the natural flavors and nutrients of the fruits we use. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about pasteurized juices and reveal the true benefits they offer in terms of both health and convenience.
Myth 1: Unpasteurized Juices Are Healthier Than Pasteurized Juices
A widespread belief is that unpasteurized juice is healthier than pasteurized juice. While unpasteurized juices may retain more of their natural enzymes, pasteurized juices have significant benefits, particularly in terms of safety and shelf life.
Pasteurization is the process of heating juice to eliminate harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. This makes pasteurized juice a much safer option, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.
Myth 2: Pasteurization Destroys All Nutrients in Juice
A common myth is that pasteurization strips juice of its nutritional value. While it’s true that some sensitive enzymes may be reduced during the process, pasteurization actually helps preserve many of the key nutrients that make juice beneficial in the first place.
Lakewood uses modern continuous flow Flash Pasteurization systems, not the traditional and outdated systems of heat application through "vat pasteurization" or "cooking" that many people think boil the nutrients out of the juice. For those looking for a safe option that doesn’t compromise on health benefits, pasteurized juice is the only choice.
Myth 3: Pasteurized Juices Contain Preservatives
A common misconception is that pasteurization means the juice must contain preservatives to maintain its shelf life. However, pasteurization itself acts as a preservation method by heating the juice to kill harmful bacteria and extend its shelf life without the need for chemical preservatives.
At Lakewood, our pasteurized juices are made without any added preservatives, artificial flavors or colors. The heating process used in pasteurization, as well as vacuum sealing, is enough to ensure that the juice stays fresh and safe for longer periods so you can enjoy the natural taste and nutrition of fruit without worrying about added chemicals.
Pasteurization allows Lakewood to maintain product purity while keeping the juice free of any artificial preservatives that may be harmful or unwanted.
The Benefits of Pasteurized Juice: Safety and Nutrition Combined
While unpasteurized juices may seem appealing for their raw, "natural" qualities, they carry a higher risk of contamination and a much shorter shelf life. Pasteurization is essential in ensuring that juice remains safe for consumption over time without sacrificing its nutritional benefits.
At Lakewood, we believe in offering juices that provide a safe, consistent, and nutritionally rich option for all consumers. Our pasteurization process preserves the flavor and nutrition of the fruit while ensuring that the juice is free from harmful bacteria. This makes it possible to enjoy juice that’s not only delicious, but also safe and long-lasting.
Pasteurization plays an essential role in ensuring that juices are both safe to drink and nutritionally valuable. Myths about pasteurized juices often overlook the many advantages this process offers, including extending shelf life, preserving nutrients, and avoiding the need for preservatives. At Lakewood, we are committed to delivering high-quality pasteurized juices that provide a safe, delicious, and nutrient-packed beverage. By debunking these common myths, we hope to encourage a better understanding of pasteurized juices and their importance in supporting a healthy lifestyle!