Apple Juice vs Apple Cider
Understanding the difference between apple juice and apple cider is not difficult. They are both beverages made from apples, but there are slight differences in the process of making them. This article will discuss the differences between the two drinks.
What is Apple Cider?
Apple cider is apple juice that has not been filtered to remove coarse particles of apple pulp. To make a gallon of cider, one needs a third of a bushel. The process of making fresh cider involves washing, cutting, and mashing fresh apples to a consistency of applesauce. Different layers of this mash are wrapped in cloth and then stacked in racks. A hydraulic press is used to press these layers and extract juice, which flows into refrigerated tanks.
Apple cider requires constant refrigeration as it is perishable and stays fresh and sweet for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it, but it is better to pour off a little from the container before freezing as it expands during the process. It is important to buy pasteurized cider, as un-pasteurized cider can contain bacteria and fungi that may be harmful to your health.
In the US, fresh apple juice with pulp is referred to as apple cider. If filtered, it becomes apple juice. However, in the UK and other countries outside the US, apple cider is known as an alcoholic drink, as the liquid is allowed to ferment, giving it an alcoholic taste and kick. This cider is called hard cider by Americans, while traditional cider is known as soft cider.
What is Apple Juice?
Apple juice is the fresh juice of apples that has been filtered to remove all sediments and pulp. As a result, it remains fresh for longer. It does not ferment and develop an alcoholic taste or kick. This fresh juice is further filtered and vacuum sealed so that it stays fresh for an extended period and does not become stale.
The color of store-bought apple juice is yellow, while homemade apple juice is brownish in appearance. This is due to multiple filtrations to remove any particles or pulp from the juice.
Key Takeaways
- Apple cider contains both apple juice and pulp, while apple juice is a pure extract of apples without any particles.
- Apple juice has a longer shelf life than apple cider and stays fresh for a longer period.
- Apple cider can be soft or hard, depending on its fermentation, while apple juice does not ferment and develop an alcoholic taste or kick.
Both apple juice and apple cider are made from apples and are available in the market. Depending on your preference, you can choose one or the other.
