Healthy Eating Research report

The national healthy eating research programme, Healthy Eating Research, has published a technical report that compiles and analyses the recommendations of various international reference organisations – such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Heart Association (AHA) and the US Department of Agriculture, among others – on beverage consumption in children and adolescents. The document, entitled “Beverage Recommendations for Children and Adolescents”, highlights a key point on which there is broad consensus: 100% fruit and vegetable juice, in moderate amounts and as part of a balanced diet, could be part of healthy hydration habits during childhood and adolescence.

This recognition is particularly relevant in a context where parents, educators and health professionals are looking for alternatives that are natural, nutritious and, at the same time, accepted by young people. The 100% natural juice – with no added sugars or additives – retains essential micronutrients and some of the phytochemicals present in fresh fruit, making it a much more interesting option than other sugary or ultra-processed drinks. However, the study points out that the consumption of 100% natural juices should be responsible and in accordance with the age of the child.

Zuvamesa, which is part of the Fruit Juice Science Centre, welcomes the recognition of the scientific evidence supporting the nutritional value of 100% natural juice and not from concentrate (NFC) as long as it is consumed as part of a healthy diet. Giving visibility to this message is essential to continue promoting a food industry based on naturalness, quality, transparency and commitment to the health of future generations.

You can read the full report here.