As fall approaches, many people indulge in apple cider, a popular cozy fall drink. However, health officials are warning consumers about the risks associated with drinking unpasteurized apple cider. The Ogle County Health Department in Illinois recently issued a seasonal health advisory, stating that “unpasteurized apple cider can cause serious illness or even death,” as noted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Apple cider is crafted from fresh apples and is typically opaque and golden in color due to being unfiltered and unpasteurized. A recent Facebook post highlighted that most apple orchards do not pasteurize their cider because there are no legal requirements mandating the process.
The FDA warns that any unpasteurized or “heat-treated” juice or cider may harbor harmful bacteria from fresh-squeezed or raw fruits and vegetables, leading to foodborne illness.
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to these risks, including children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the FDA, these populations face a higher risk of severe illnesses and even death from consuming unpasteurized juices.
As you enjoy the fall season, be mindful of the health hazards associated with unpasteurized apple cider. Stay safe and enjoy your fall festivities responsibly!
