Unpasteurized Apple Cider May Have Some Serious Health Consequences

The days are getting shorter and chillier, and the fall foliage is in full effect. It can all really leave you jonesing for a crisp apple cider. But, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you may want to be careful when you reach for that classic autumn drink.

As the FDA has previously warned, when fruits and vegetables are fresh-squeezed or used raw, "bacteria from the produce can end up in your juice or cider. Unless the produce or the juice has been pasteurized or otherwise treated to destroy any harmful bacteria, the juice could be contaminated." The organization added that it has received reports of food poisoning outbreaks in the past that have been linked to fruit and vegetable juice and cider that have not been treated to kill bacteria.

Though the agency noted that most people's immune systems typically fight off this kind of illness, "children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems (such as transplant patients and individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes) risk serious illnesses or even death from drinking untreated juices." 

As for how you can protect yourself, the agency noted that most juices sold in the U.S. will carry a label noting it is pasteurized or treated by another non-heat process that also kills harmful bacteria. But, it's important to note that grocery stores, farmers' markets, and those ever-popular pumpkin patches are likely selling freshly squeezed, meaning it hasn't been treated. Any untreated products should only be found in the refrigerator and are required to carry the following warning on the label:

WARNING: This product has not been pasteurized and, therefore, may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems. 

There is one more caveat: The FDA "does not require warning labels for juice or cider that is sold by the glass — for example, at apple orchards, farmers’ markets, roadside stands, juice bars, and some restaurants," so just know the risks when you open up that glass jar. 

As for how to protect yourself from illness, the organization suggests looking for pasteurized or treated juices. And if you prepare juice at home, start by thoroughly washing your hands and discarding any damaged or bruised areas on the fruits and vegetables you're using. Wash everything under running water before cutting (it added that washing fruits and vegetables with "soap, detergent, or commercial produce wash is not recommended"). Then, dry produce with a clean cloth towel or paper towel before pressing your juice, and (safely) enjoy the best flavors of the season.