What is the Difference Between Apple Juice and Apple Cider?

The main difference between apple juice and apple cider lies in the processing and filtering of the liquid. Here are the key differences:

• Apple Cider:
• Fresh, unfiltered, and often unpasteurized.
• Made from pressed fresh apples.
• Contains no added sugar and undergoes minimal processing.
• Seasonal drink, typically available only during autumn months.
• Shorter shelf life, about five days if not pasteurized, and should be refrigerated at all times.
• Can start to ferment and become apple cider vinegar or alcoholic cider over time.
• Apple Juice:
• Filtered and pasteurized.
• Made from pressed apples with added preservatives such as sugar, giving it a sweeter taste and smoother texture.
• Longer shelf life, typically three to six months for unopened, chilled apple juice.
• Less likely to ferment and become alcoholic cider.

In some cases, the labeling of apple cider and apple juice can be confusing, as there is no legal standard for the distinction in most places. However, the differences in processing and filtering generally help distinguish between the two beverages.

Comparative Table: Apple Juice vs Apple Cider

Here is a table comparing the differences between apple juice and apple cider:

Apple juice and apple cider are both pressed from fresh apples, but the differences in processing and taste make them unique products. While apple juice is more processed and has a longer shelf life, apple cider is unfiltered, unpasteurized, and has a shorter shelf life. The taste of apple cider is tangier and more natural compared to the sweeter apple juice.