Calories in Apple Juice: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Apple juice is a widely consumed fruit juice, especially popular among children. An 8 oz glass of 100% apple juice contains approximately 114 calories, most of which come from natural sugars. It provides a moderate amount of potassium and some vitamin C, though it lacks the fiber found in whole apples.

Calories by serving size:

Apple juice is naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free, but its high sugar content and lack of fiber mean it should be consumed in moderation. Unlike whole apples, which contain about 4.4 grams of fiber per medium fruit, commercially filtered apple juice retains almost none. Choosing cloudy or unfiltered apple juice can provide slightly more polyphenols and trace amounts of fiber compared to clear juice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is apple juice as nutritious as eating a whole apple?

No. A medium apple contains about 95 calories, 4.4 grams of fiber, and a wide range of polyphenols concentrated in the skin, while 8 oz of apple juice has 114 calories, virtually no fiber, and fewer antioxidants. Whole apples are more filling due to their fiber and water content, making them a better choice for weight management and blood sugar control.

How much sugar is in apple juice?

An 8 oz glass of 100% apple juice contains approximately 24 grams of natural sugar, primarily fructose. This is slightly higher than the sugar in an equivalent serving of orange juice. While these are naturally occurring sugars, the absence of fiber means they are absorbed rapidly, which can cause a quicker spike in blood sugar compared to eating whole fruit.

Is apple juice healthy for kids?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting juice intake for children: no juice for infants under 1 year, up to 4 oz per day for ages 1 to 3, and up to 6 oz per day for ages 4 to 6. While 100% apple juice does provide some vitamins and hydration, excessive consumption can contribute to excess calorie intake, tooth decay, and displacement of more nutritious foods.

How does apple juice compare to orange juice?

Apple juice and orange juice have similar calorie counts — about 114 and 112 calories per 8 oz, respectively. The key nutritional difference is that orange juice provides significantly more vitamin C (124 mg vs. about 2 mg) and folate. Apple juice offers slightly more potassium per serving. Neither contains meaningful fiber, so whole fruits remain the better option.

What is the difference between clear and cloudy apple juice?

Clear apple juice is filtered and processed to remove pulp and sediment, resulting in a transparent appearance. Cloudy apple juice retains more of the apple's natural pulp and polyphenols, giving it a higher antioxidant content — studies show up to four times more polyphenols than clear juice. Calorie and sugar content are similar between the two, so cloudy juice offers a slight nutritional edge.