A recent study has found that drinking 100% fruit juice is associated with healthier diet choices and does not replace whole fruit in people’s diets. The research, published on August 21, 2025, examined how both 100% fruit juice and diluted juices 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, explained the value of this data: “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.”
Current guidelines from both the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend varying amounts of 100% fruit juice depending 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 concluded that consuming 100% fruit juice generally adds to overall fruit intake rather than reducing whole fruit consumption. It also helps fill nutrient gaps among people who may have limited access to whole fruits. An eight-ounce glass of orange juice provides nutrients like folate, thiamin, potassium and vitamin C.
The Florida Department of Citrus oversees marketing, research and regulation related to Florida’s citrus industry. The department is funded by a tax paid by growers for each box of citrus sold commercially. According to its reports, the industry employs more than 32,500 people in Florida and generates an annual economic impact of $6.9 billion while supporting state infrastructure through tax contributions.
For more information about this study or to arrange interviews with Dr. Rosa Walsh or Jennifer Hillis, contact fnews@citrus.myflorida.com or call 863-255-0136.
