As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and study various types of apple beverages, including cider and apple juice. When it comes to determining which is healthier, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, it is important to note that both cider and apple juice are made from apples, but the processes and ingredients used differ. Clear commercial apple juice is typically made from a variety of apples, often including sweeter varieties, which are then filtered and pasteurized to create a clear and uniform product. On the other hand, cider is made from cider apples, which are specifically grown for their flavor and aroma, and often contain more polyphenol compounds.
Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables, and they have been associated with numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. These compounds are more abundant in the skin and pulp of apples, which are typically included in cider production but may be discarded in the production of clear apple juice.
Additionally, the extra processing involved in making clear apple juice, such as filtration and pasteurization, may further reduce the polyphenol content. In contrast, cider is often made using traditional methods that retain more of the apple's natural compounds.
Personal experience has shown me that fresh cider from cider apples tends to have a richer and more complex flavor compared to clear commercial apple juice. This is likely due to the higher concentration of polyphenols and other flavor compounds found in the cider apples.
To summarize, cider contains more of apples' polyphenol compounds compared to clear commercial apple juice. This is primarily due to the use of specific cider apple varieties and the extra processing involved in making clear juice. However, it is important to note that both cider and apple juice can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.