How long can juiced fruits and vegetables last

If you have ever had fresh-squeezed juice then you know the juice you buy at the store can’t compare to it.  It tastes better and you know there are no additives or preservatives. 

But, how long will your fresh-squeezed juice last?  To answer that question there are a few things you’ll need to consider. 

We’ll look at those things and I’ll give you tips on what you can do to keep your juice stay fresh longer.

Keys To Longer Lasting Fresh Juice

I know your days are probably busy and you might not have the time to make fresh juice every day so you’ll want to juice enough produce at one time to last a couple of days. 

Preventing oxidation is the key to knowing how long your juice will stay fresh and provide the optimal amount of nutrients. Oxidation occurs when the flesh of fruits and vegetables are exposed to air. It can ruin the shelf life of your juice. 

A natural chemical reaction occurs, causing your produce to lose nutrients.  The rate of oxidation depends on three things: what you’re juicing, which type of juicer you’re using, and how you’re storing it. 

What Are You Juicing?

Whenever possible, you’ll want to start with the freshest produce available, whether it’s from your own garden or a Farmer’s Market.  Juices made from most fruits and vegetables stay fresh for 2-3 days. 

Now, to every “rule”,  there’s at least one exception.  In this case, that exception is fresh-squeezed orange juice made with Navel oranges. 

Navel oranges have a natural compound called limonin in their flesh.  Exposing limonin to air will start to turn the juice bitter, usually within 30 minutes.

Which Type of Juicer Are You Using?

Are you using a centrifugal juicer or a masticating juicer?  Your choice in juicer makes a difference in how long your juice will last. 

A centrifugal juicer produces a lot of heat during the process, which amps up the oxidation process.  A masticating (cold press) juicer works slowly, producing little to no heat. 

If you want to know more about the difference between types of juicers and compare the best juicers on the market, read more here.

How Are You Storing Your Juice?

Storing your juice in a glass jar with an air-tight lid could extend the shelf life by one day or two.  Mason jars are great for storing your juice. 

You’ll want to avoid using plastic containers because they can speed up the oxidation process. 

Plastic containers also have a limited life-span before they start to break down, leaking plastic and chemicals into your juice.  Keep your juice in the refrigerator until you’re ready to drink it.

Tips for Keeping Your Juice Fresh Longer

Here are a couple things you can do to slow down the oxidation process and extend the shelf life in your fresh-squeezed juice.

• Add a couple slices of lemon or lime to your juicer or add it to the jar before sealing and refrigerating.
• Fill your jar all the way to the brim with juice.  More juice equals less room for air in the jar.

Benefits of Fresh-Squeezed Juice

Research has shown that most adults don’t get enough produce in their diet.  Fresh juice is a great way to get your daily recommendation of fruits and vegetables.

One cup can provide two servings of vegetables. Drinking fresh-squeezed juice provides you with nutrients and antioxidants, which your body absorbs quickly. 

Conclusion

How long your fresh-squeezed juice will last depends on what you’re juicing, how you’re juicing, and how you’re storing your juice.

For longer lasting juice, choose the freshest produce, use a masticating juicer and store your juice in the refrigerator in an air-tight, glass container. 

It’s always best to drink your juice immediately to receive the most nutritional value.  But, you and I lead busy lives and know that it’s not always possible to make fresh juice every day. 

Don’t worry.  If you follow these guidelines, the juice you made yesterday will still be good today and tomorrow. 

Do you have any stories about good juices gone bad?  Let us know in the comments.