November 24, 2009

Health Tip: Risks Associated With Unpasteurized Juice

(HealthDay News) -- Fruit juice that's untreated or unpasteurized may taste great, but it could also harbor germs that could make you sick, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

Most juices sold in the United States are treated (such as with UV irradiation) or pasteurized (heated to a high temperature) to reduce the risk of foodborne disease, the agency says.

Juices labeled as raw or unpasteurized should be avoided, especially among young children, elderly adults and others with compromised immune systems.

If the label is unclear about whether the juice has been treated to kill any bacteria, it should be avoided, the CDC says.

-- Diana Kohnle

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