And the longer days are drawing to a close, with the less humid summer coming to an end at last. The foliage during autumn is spectacular, and apple cider is just waiting to be sipped. However, according to the Food and Drug Administration, when you are going to reach for that ever popular autumn drink, it is best if you exercise caution.
The FDA has previously cautioned that in fresh squeezed or raw juices made from fruits and vegetables, the introduction of bacteria from the produce into the juice and the cider is possible. Moreover, participating geographical areas consist of direct juice distribution only in jurisdiction areas where such treatment and different ways to suppress pathogenic organisms are provided. It also reported that incidents of foodborne illness were reported in the past and were associated with unpasteurized vegetable and fruit juices and ciders.The agency also acknowledged that most healthy individuals will not exhibit much ill effect from this kind of infection, but "young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immunity can sustain serious complications or death from consuming unprocessed juices."
As for how you can protect yourself, the agency mentioned most juices on sale in the U.S. are likely to have a label indicating the juice has been pasteurized or treated in some non-heating way that kills all the dangerous microorganisms. Still, it's crucial to highlight that grocery stores, farmers' markets, and those ever popular pumpkin patches are probably the ones selling freshly squeezed juices, meaning fresh juices, which most often than not, are unprocessed. In addition to this, one should only purchase these untreated forms of juice when they are stored in the refrigerator and have a label with the following caution written on it:
Warning: This product is unpasteurized and therefore poses a risk of harboring pathogens that can cause illness in young children, the elderly, or immune-compromised individuals.
One additional disclaimer: The USDA "exemption applies...to retail 'by the glass' sales of non-alcoholic beverages, such as cider or apple juice, restorative juice bars, on sites such as farms, roadside stalls, and even some eateries," so take note of potential hazards when buying that sickly sweet jar.
The agency recommends using pasteurized or otherwise treated juices when looking for ways on how to avoid getting sick. And if a homemade juice deters you, bear in mind how long the fruits and veggies that you will be using must be washed. Actually, cut out all the rotten or unhealthy parts of the vegetables or fruits that you will be using. Then, all the items should be cleaned under running water before they are cut. Later on, use a hygienic towel or paper towel to pat dry the vegetables or fruits before you extract juices from them and relish seasonal delicacies at their best.