New Juice Rules: Pasteurized OJ Must Have 10% Solids, Says 'Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act'

The "Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act of 2025" sets a new bar for what can be called pasteurized orange juice. Specifically, the bill, in Section 2, mandates that pasteurized orange juice needs to contain a minimum of 10% orange juice solids by weight, before any extra sweeteners are thrown in.

Squeezing Out the Details

This act aims to standardize the quality of pasteurized orange juice. By requiring at least 10% orange juice solids, it's essentially setting a baseline for how much of the drink actually comes from oranges. For example, a juice box on the shelf could not contain less than 10% orange juice soluble solids, regardless of other additives. So, if you are working a construction job, a busy shift at a store, or managing a hectic day at the office, and you grab some OJ, you have some level of assurance of a minimum orange juice content.

Real-World Zest

What does this mean for your morning routine? It might mean a slightly more consistent product across brands. If you're someone who relies on orange juice for a quick vitamin C boost, this standard ensures a certain level of 'orangeness' in every carton. Think of it like this: if you're buying a pre-made coffee, you expect a certain amount of actual coffee in it, right? This is the same idea, but for OJ.

The Fine Print

It's worth noting that while the bill sets a minimum standard, it explicitly states that the Secretary of Health and Human Services still has the power to tweak these regulations. This means the 10% figure isn't set in stone forever and could be adjusted based on future findings or industry changes. Also, the bill focuses on the solids content and doesn't restrict the amount of added sweeteners. So, while the "orange" part is regulated, manufacturers have some leeway with the sugar content. The law may need further amendments to address the potential for abuse.