Apple cider is a delicious and refreshing beverage that is enjoyed by many people during the fall season. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming unpasteurized apple cider. Unpasteurized apple cider, which is made from fresh apples and is not heated to kill harmful bacteria, can contain harmful bacteria that can make people sick. These bacteria can cause a range of illnesses, from mild stomach upset to more serious conditions like E. coli infection.

The Dangers of Unpasteurized Apple Cider

Unpasteurized apple cider can contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. The most common bacteria found in unpasteurized apple cider are E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, and headache. In some cases, these infections can be life-threatening, especially for infants, young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Who Is Most at Risk?

People who are most at risk of getting sick from unpasteurized apple cider include:

• Children: Children are more likely to get sick from foodborne illness because their immune systems are not fully developed.
• Older Adults: Older adults are also more susceptible to foodborne illness because their immune systems are weakened with age.
• Pregnant Women: Pregnant women are at increased risk of developing serious complications from foodborne illnesses, such as miscarriage or premature birth.
• People with Weakened Immune Systems: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or undergoing organ transplantation, are at increased risk of developing serious complications from foodborne illnesses.

How to Stay Safe

There are a few things you can do to help protect yourself from the risks of unpasteurized apple cider:

• Look for the “Pasteurized” Label: When purchasing apple cider, always look for the “Pasteurized” label on the bottle or carton.
• Ask About Pasteurization: If you’re buying apple cider from a local orchard, farmers market, or juice bar, be sure to ask if the cider has been pasteurized.
• Heat the Cider: If you are concerned about the safety of unpasteurized apple cider, you can boil it for at least 1 minute before drinking to kill harmful bacteria.

Recognizing the Symptoms

If you drink unpasteurized apple cider and experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools
• Vomiting: Throwing up
• Abdominal Cramps: Pain in the stomach
• Fever: High body temperature
• Headache: Pain in the head

Takeaway Points

• Unpasteurized apple cider can contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness.
• Those most at risk for serious illnesses from unpasteurized apple cider include children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
• To protect yourself, always check for the “Pasteurized” label on the product and ask about pasteurization if you are buying apple cider from a local source.
• If you drink unpasteurized apple cider and experience any symptoms of illness, seek medical attention immediately.