FDA Lowers the Bar for What Counts as Orange Juice
Published Date: 7/20/2026
Rule
Summary
The FDA is updating the rules for pasteurized orange juice by lowering the minimum sugar content and allowing up to 15% of a new type of citrus juice. This change helps juice makers, especially in Florida, keep up with modern practices without raising costs. The new rules kick in on August 19, 2026, giving producers time to adjust.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Permit up to 15% Citrus reticulata juice
The FDA increases the maximum allowable volume of unfermented Citrus reticulata (or hybrids) in pasteurized orange juice from 10 percent to 15 percent. After this change, pasteurized orange juice must be at least 85 percent Citrus sinensis by volume if Citrus reticulata is used.
Manufacturers estimated cost savings ~$28M/year
FDA estimates primary annualized cost savings to manufacturers of about -$28.8 million at a 3% discount rate and about -$28.4 million at a 7% discount rate, annualized over 10 years, from the added flexibility to use lower-Brix fruit and different blends.
Minimum sugar standard lowered to 10° Brix
The FDA lowers the minimum soluble solids (Brix) for pasteurized orange juice from 10.5° to 10° Brix. This changes sugar per 8-ounce serving from about 18 grams to about 17 grams and alters some nutrients (potassium 455→419 mg per serving, folate 96→89 µg DFE per serving, vitamin C 74→85 mg per serving). FDA says these differences are small and unlikely to materially affect taste or nutrition.
No new labeling or compliance burdens
FDA states the final rule does not change any labeling requirements for pasteurized orange juice: grams of sugar remain on the Nutrition Facts label, and FDA declined to require Brix disclosure. FDA also concludes the rule does not impose compliance costs on industry.
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