Why Drinking Unpasteurized Apple Cider Is A Big Risk
NEWS
By ANDREW AMELINCKX
Since apple cider is unfiltered and sometimes unpasteurized, bacteria like salmonella or E. coli from the apples or other sources can occasionally find its way into the raw juice.
Pasteurization is a process that uses heat to kill bacteria, but it's not required by the FDA if the cider is being sold directly by the glass or made, packaged, and sold onsite.
These bacteria can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or flu-like symptoms that can typically come on in one to three days.
The apple cider sold at most grocery stores is pasteurized, but if you're buying it from an orchard or similar venue, look for a warning notice on the package.
Groups of people who should avoid unpasteurized apple cider include babies and young children, pregnant people, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
