Apple Cider is a beloved fall favorite, but it can carry health risks if not expended with care. Local health departments are urging consumers to be mindful of unpasteurized apple cider, which can lead to serious foodborne illnesses.
Here are key points to notice:
Unpasteurized Apple Cider Risks:
Unpasteurized juice often looks murky & golden due to its unfiltered state. Many orchards skip pasteurization as it’s not always needed. This can leave harmful bacteria in the cider that may cause illness.
The Ogle County Health Department in Illinois warns that “unpasteurized Apple Cider may contain injurious bacteria that can make people sick.” The Fulton County Health Department in Georgia also stresses the significance of checking labels to ensure that the cider has been heat-treated. If not, the CDC mentions boiling unpasteurized cider for at least one minute before consumption.
Check for Warning Labels:
While most juices in the U.S. are pasteurized to eliminate bacteria, unpasteurized options still appear at cider mills, farmers’ markets, & some grocery stores. These products are required to have a warning label stating: “WARNING: This product has not been pasteurized & may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly, & persons with weakened immune systems.”
However, this label is not required for cider sold by the glass at orchards, roadside stands, or juice bars. If you’re unsure about whether the cider is pasteurized, always ask.
Who is at Risk?
Children, pregnant women, older adults, & those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to illnesses from unpasteurized products. These individuals should take extra care when consuming Apple Cider.
By following simple precautions like checking labels & boiling unpasteurized apple cider, you can enjoy this fall favorite safely. Stay informed & protects your health while savoring the seasonal taste of this fall.
