A new study has found that drinking 100% fruit juice is linked to healthier dietary habits and does not replace the consumption of whole fruit. The research, published on August 21, 2025, examined how both 100% fruit juice and diluted juice are consumed across different groups based on sex, age, income-to-poverty ratio, and race or ethnicity.
Researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the years 2017-2020 and 2021-2023. Rosa Walsh, PhD, director of scientific research for the Florida Department of Citrus, said, “NHANES gives us a nationally representative look at what Americans eat and drink. Because participants provide detailed 24-hour dietary recalls collected over multiple days, the data offers a foundation for studying eating patterns, including 100% juice intake.”
Guidelines from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend daily amounts of 100% fruit juice without added sugar based on age. Jennifer Hillis, MS, RD, LDN, citrus nutrition research liaison at the University of South Florida College of Public Health stated: “According to the AAP, 100% fruit juice can fit into children’s diets when served in moderation alongside balanced meals and snacks. Similarly, the 2020-2025 DGA note that 100% fruit juices, such as orange juice, can help people meet daily fruit recommendations.”
The study’s findings indicate that most people who drink 100% fruit juice do not reduce their intake of whole fruits. Instead, these juices help individuals reach recommended levels of total fruit consumption and may help fill nutrient gaps for those who cannot always access or afford whole fruits. The researchers noted that an eight-ounce glass of orange juice provides nutrients such as folate, thiamin, potassium and vitamin C.
The Florida Department of Citrus is responsible for marketing, research and regulation within Florida’s citrus industry. According to its website (https://www.floridacitrus.org/newsroom/), this sector employs more than 32,500 people in Florida and generates an annual economic impact estimated at $6.9 billion.
For more information about this study or to schedule interviews with Dr. Rosa Walsh or Jennifer Hillis, contact fnews@citrus.myflorida.com or call 863-255-0136.
