100% fruit juice can give children vitamin C, potassium and folate, but it should be limited: the American Academy of Pediatrics advises no juice under 1 year, at most 120 ml a day at ages 1–3, 120–180 ml at ages 4–6 and 240 ml at ages 7–18. Whole fruit is the better choice because it keeps the fibre that juice loses.
Key facts at a glance
- Benefits: vitamin C, potassium, folate and plant compounds from the fruit.
- Main risks: tooth decay, excess sugar and calories, and loose stools in toddlers.
- Choose 100% juice, not “juice drinks” or nectars with added sugar.
- Serve it in a cup with meals, never in a bottle or sippy cup through the day, or at bedtime.
- Pasteurised juice is safer for young children than unpasteurised or fresh-squeezed juice from shops.
How much juice by age
| Age | Maximum 100% juice per day |
|---|---|
| Under 12 months | None (unless advised by a doctor) |
| 1–3 years | 120 ml (4 oz) |
| 4–6 years | 120–180 ml (4–6 oz) |
| 7–18 years | 240 ml (8 oz) |
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement, 2017.
What juice offers children
- Vitamin C. 120 ml of orange juice supplies about 40 mg, more than a young child’s daily need.
- Potassium and folate, especially in orange juice.
- Calcium and vitamin D — only in fortified juices.
- Counts towards fruit intake in many dietary guidelines, in limited amounts.
The risks of too much juice
- Tooth decay. Sugar and acid together, especially with frequent sipping.
- Excess calories. Juice is easy to drink quickly and does not fill children up like whole fruit.
- Displacing milk and meals. Juice can reduce appetite for foods children need.
- Diarrhoea in toddlers. Large amounts of apple and pear juice, rich in sorbitol and fructose, are a common cause.
Juice or whole fruit?
| Whole fruit | 100% juice | |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre | Yes | Little or none |
| Fullness | High | Low |
| Vitamins | Yes | Yes |
| Effect on teeth | Lower | Higher |
Tips for serving juice to children
- Choose 100% juice and check there is no added sugar.
- Serve it in an open cup with a meal, not between meals.
- Dilute with water to make a small amount last longer.
- Offer water and milk as the everyday drinks.
- Prefer pasteurised juice for young children.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a child have juice?
The AAP advises no juice before 12 months unless a doctor recommends it. From age 1, up to 120 ml a day of 100% juice is acceptable.
Is fruit juice healthy for kids?
In small amounts, 100% juice provides vitamins and minerals. In larger amounts it adds sugar and calories and raises the risk of tooth decay.
Is homemade juice better than store-bought?
Homemade juice has no added sugar, but it contains the same natural sugar. Store-bought 100% pasteurised juice is equally acceptable and microbiologically safer for young children.
Should juice be diluted for children?
Diluting is a good way to reduce sugar per drink and help the daily allowance last longer, though the total amount of juice is what counts.
Which juice is best for children?
Any 100% juice within the daily limit. Orange juice is rich in vitamin C and potassium; large amounts of apple and pear juice are more likely to upset toddlers’ stomachs.
Related reading
See the health benefits of vegetable and fruit juices, 100% juice, NFC and concentrate explained, or the ACM Beverage fruit juice range.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Ask your child’s doctor about specific dietary needs.
