Apple Cider (Sweet)

Apple cider is the original American beverage. Early U.S. settlers drank apple cider morning, noon and night as their primary beverage, unsure of the safety of the drinking water. Until Prohibition, "cider" meant hard cider, an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting sweet cider. Cidermakers carefully guard their secret cider recipes, some of which have been passed down from generation to generation.

Originally found only at local orchards, roadside stands or farmer's markets, the apple cider market has now expanded into a year-round business. So you can now enjoy apple cider all year long! (It is great over crushed ice on a hot summer day.)

Sweet cider is made by crushing a blend of apple varieties into a pomace, then pressing the juice from the pomace. Tiny apple solids floating in the juice turn color when exposed to air, giving cider that gorgeous caramel color and opaque look.

Apple cider - 100% juice, not watered down, naturally sweetened by the fruit itself, with no sugar added - is a great way to drink your apples. Each 4-ounce glass of cider counts as a serving towards the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommended five to thirteen servings of fruits and vegetables per day, for optimal health. What a delicious way to get on your way to the best possible you!

Sweet cider is a highly perishable product. Treat it the same way you would treat milk; keep it refrigerated at all times, and enjoy it by the date on the label or within 7-10 days. Most cider has been treated for safety; untreated cider must carry a warning label.