This type of juice goes through a process that retains the nutrients of the ingredients. They are made using a hydraulic press that, with great pressure, extracts all the drops of juice. This process takes place inside a bag that has the function of separating the liquid from the pulp. And thus, it makes the digestive absorption faster, since the juice does not contain pulp.
The difference between this type of juice and that made from a blender is that it does not oxidize or spoil the fruits and vegetables, keeping the nutrients and natural enzymes intact.
In this way, cold-pressed juices have up to 5 times more nutrients, minerals and enzymes than more commonly prepared juices. In addition, they are more natural and do not have the addition of water or sugar, and can even be considered live foods.
Another important factor is that these drinks do not have added preservatives and are not pasteurized, so they must be consumed within 72 hours. There is also the possibility of freezing the drink for up to six months.
Most juices on the Spanish market go through the pasteurization process, which, despite ensuring a longer shelf life, also damages vitamins, minerals and enzymes, killing practically all of them in the process of heating the liquid.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, only beverages that contain 100% fruit can be considered juice and, since 2014, beverage labels must inform how much fruit pulp or fruit juice is used in their composition. This determination is a warning to consumers not to buy fruit nectar thinking it is the real juice.
Cold-pressed juices are usually a mixture of ingredients, being included in the detox diet, a fad that remains among people who seek a healthier life. Many companies have offered a liquid-only diet and basically use the detox concept. However, this practice is still heavily criticized by nutritionists, as they do not include all the basic nutrients for an adult's life.
The important thing is to always read the juice label, whether it's nectar or cold pressed. Also look for a nutritionist to receive the best juice indication for your food routine.
Text written by Gabrielle Carreira from the Eu Sem Fronteiras team.
