Juice it right: cold-pressed or classic?
As the temperature rises and the sun shows no mercy, nothing beats the refreshing burst of a glass of juice. But right now, you're not just choosing between mango or watermelon. There's a juicing buzzword you’ve probably come across—cold-pressed. Is it really better than regular juice? Or is it just another social media approved health trend?
Let’s understand scientifically!
Cold-pressed juice is manufactured using a hydraulic press that squeezes out juice without any heat formation. This means the fruits and vegetables retain more nutrients, enzymes, and natural flavour. Compared to conventional juicing, which uses fast-spinning blades (that generates heat), cold-pressed juice is like the gold standard for nutrition.
Enriched with vitamins and minerals (especially Vitamin C and antioxidants)
As there is no production of heat, it doesn't cause any nutrient loss
Additionally, it's devoid of preservatives or added sugars
If stored properly, cold-pressed juices have longer shelf life
Conventionally fruit juices at home or most local juice stalls use centrifugal juicers. They're quick, cheap, and widely available. However, the process involves heat generation, which can break down delicate nutrients. As a result, oxidation starts faster, reducing freshness. Many packaged juices contain sugar, artificial flavours, or additives.
However, they always win in price, speed, and taste familiarity—especially when you’re grabbing a roadside mosambi or sugarcane juice.
The cold-pressed variety has higher nutritional value than regular juice.
In terms of shelf life, cold pressed juice stays the same for 3-5 days if kept in a cool environment, whereas regular juice should be drunk immediately.
Taste-wise, cold pressed juice feels pure with an earthy flavour. The traditional juice tastes familiar, sometimes sweeter than the other one.
In terms of price, regular ones are pocket friendly whereas cold pressed ones are costly.
Cold-pressed juices are now accessible in many places across India. In tier-1 cities it's available easily, in supermarkets or subscription services. Otherwise, it's available on online grocery shopping platforms.
Don’t want to spend Rs. 150 on a bottle everyday? If you purchase a slow juicer or masticating juicer, you’re halfway there. Always choose fresh and seasonal fruits, wash them properly, and extract juice from them slowly. Even without fancy packaging, you will get wholesome hydration.
Pro Tip: Add herbs like tulsi, mint, or lemongrass for an Ayurvedic twist!
Always refrigerate immediately and consume it within 3 days.
Avoid street juices in peak heat hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
Watch out for added sugar levels in “health” juices
While buying online or offline, look out for labels like “100% juice,” “no concentrate,” and “cold-pressed”
Cold-pressed juices win in terms of nutrition and purity, but regular juices also hold their own charm with accessibility and affordability. The best choice should depend on your budget, lifestyle, and fitness goals.
If you're planning to detox, boost immunity, or stay truly clean—choose cold-pressed.
If you just want a quick cool-down solution—grab your neighborhood nimbu paani or sugarcane juice.
Stay hydrated. Stay smart. Juice it right!
