What is NFC orange juice?
NFC orange juice refers to “not-from-concentrate orange juice.” This means that after the oranges are juiced, the juice is not subjected to concentration or reconstitution processes, but is instead directly sterilized and packaged. Because NFC orange juice is usually made from fresh, ripe oranges, its taste is closer to freshly squeezed orange juice, making it more popular with consumers.
Is NFC orange juice healthy?
From a nutritional and processing perspective, NFC orange juice is relatively healthier, mainly in the following aspects:
Better nutrient retention: Because its production process omits the concentration process, vitamin C, natural fructose, minerals, and the natural flavor components of oranges are better preserved.
Pure ingredients: Most NFC orange juices do not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, resulting in a “cleaner” ingredient list.
However, it’s important to note:
NFC orange juice still contains natural fructose and should not be consumed in excessive amounts.
Cold chain transportation and refrigerated storage are crucial for maintaining its quality.
How is NFC orange juice processed?
The main processing steps for NFC orange juice are as follows:
Orange selection and cleaning: Fresh, ripe oranges are selected and cleaned to remove impurities from the surface.
Juicing and filtration: The oranges are pressed using an orange juicer to obtain the raw juice, and then filtered to remove seeds and some coarse fibers.
Deaeration and homogenization: Air is removed from the juice to reduce oxidation; homogenization makes the juice smoother and more stable.
Low-temperature sterilization: Pasteurization or other gentle sterilization methods are used to ensure food safety while preserving nutrients and flavor as much as possible.
Aseptic filling and refrigeration: Filling is completed in a sterile environment, and the finished product requires refrigerated storage and transportation.
Throughout the entire process, there is no concentration or water added for reconstitution. This is the fundamental difference between NFC orange juice and regular orange juice.
Tools for NFC Orange Juice Production
To produce high-quality NFC orange juice stably and efficiently, a professional orange juice production line is essential. A complete NFC orange juice production line typically includes:
Washing – Juicing – Filtration and Deaeration – Homogenization – Low-Temperature Pasteurization – Aseptic Filling