How to Freeze Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
Orange juice contains a high amount of vitamin C, dietary fiber and calcium. Oranges are available year round in grocery stores, which makes it convenient to squeeze fresh juice from the fruits. Freshly squeezed orange juice only lasts for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. Prolong the shelf life of the orange juice by freezing it. When you want to drink or use the juice, simply place it in the refrigerator to thaw. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Sponge or vegetable brush
- Paper towels
- Chlorine bleach
- Juicer
- White sugar
- Airtight freezer containers
Instructions
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Run hot water over the oranges and scrub on the surface with a sponge or vegetable brush. Dry the oranges with paper towels. Disinfect utensils and surfaces with 1 tsp. of chlorine bleach mixed with 1 quart of warm water.
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Cut the orange in half. Remove the juice from the orange with a juicer that will not remove the oil from the rind. Sweeten the juice if you desire by adding 2 tbsp. of white sugar for every quart of fresh-squeezed juice.
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Pour the juice into clean, rigid freezer containers immediately. Leave 1 1/2 inches between the juice and the lid to allow for expansion. Seal the containers with tight-fitting lids.
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Place the orange juice into the freezer. Label the orange juice with a date and use within 12 months for best results.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase juicers specifically designed for oranges for best results. You can buy them at most specialty food or gourmet stores.
Consumption of unpasteurized orange juice by people who are susceptible to food-borne illness is not recommended.
Avoid cleaning the oranges with soaps, bleach or detergents because it can contaminate the fruit.
Never slice oranges on the same cutting surface as raw meats.
Avoid purchasing oranges that have dull skin, soft spots, mold or bruises because they will lack in quality.
References
- University of California; Oranges: Safe Methods to Store, Preserve and Enjoy; Jennifer E. Snart, et al.; 2006
- Texas A&M University Extension; Safe Handling of Fresh Oranges; Peggy Van Laanen, et al.; May 2004
- Utah State University; Fruit Freezing Methods; Georgia C. Lauritzen
- LSU Ag Center; Freezing Fruits; Beth Reames, et al.; March 2007
- North Dakota State University; Fresh Squeezed Facts; Jocey Mathern, et al.; February 2000
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
