100% apple juice contains only apple juice, with about 46 kcal and 9.6 g of natural sugar per 100 ml; it is sold either clear (filtered) or cloudy (with fine pulp). The key safety specification is patulin, a mould toxin from damaged apples, limited to 50 µg/kg in juice in the EU. Unless fortified, apple juice contains very little vitamin C.
Key facts at a glance
- Clear juice is filtered and enzyme-treated; cloudy juice keeps fine particles and more polyphenols.
- Most apple juice is reconstituted from concentrate; NFC is a premium option.
- Vitamin C is naturally low (about 1 mg per 100 ml) unless added.
- Patulin limits: 50 µg/kg (EU juice), 10 µg/kg for baby foods.
- 1 L PET is a common household format.
Clear versus cloudy apple juice
| Clear | Cloudy | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Transparent, golden | Opaque, pale |
| Processing | Enzymes and filtration | Minimal filtration |
| Polyphenols | Lower | Higher |
| Taste | Sweet, simple | Fuller, fresher |
| Stability | Very stable | Can settle; shake before use |
What buyers should specify
- 100% juice, NFC or from concentrate, with origin of apples or concentrate.
- Brix — EU minimum for reconstituted apple juice is 11.2.
- Patulin test results against destination limits.
- Clear or cloudy style.
- Vitamin C fortification if you want a nutrition claim.
- Pack format — 1 L PET, cartons or single-serve bottles.
Frequently asked questions
Is 100% apple juice healthy?
It provides fluid, potassium and some polyphenols, but also about 24 g of sugar per 250 ml glass. Keep portions small; whole apples are more filling.
What is the difference between clear and cloudy apple juice?
Clear juice is filtered to remove particles; cloudy keeps them, along with more polyphenols and a fuller taste.
What is patulin?
A toxin produced by moulds on damaged apples. Good fruit sorting keeps it well below legal limits.
Is apple juice from concentrate still 100% juice?
Yes, if only the removed water is added back. It must be labelled “from concentrate”.
Apple juice from ACM Beverage
ACM Beverage supplies 100% apple juice for OEM and private label customers. See the 1 L 100% apple juice or the fruit juice range. For consumer information, read apple juice benefits.
