Australian Dietary Guidelines state that a small 125mL glass of fruit juice with no added sugar consumed occasionally can count towards a serve of fruit.

Citrus Australia CEO, Judith Damiani, said the report revealed adults and children needed to increase the amount of fresh fruit they consumed. “We recommend eating more fresh fruit, as it comes with added benefits like fibre, but a small glass of Australian unsweetened juice is an effective way of helping Australians reach their recommended fruit intake. Citrus is a natural nutrient powerhouse that has contributed to the Australian diet for generations – including important nutrients such as vitamin C, folate and potassium.”

Damiani said the latest research would go some way to sorting fact from fiction, and reassure families that 100% Australian fruit juice can be enjoyed with confidence as part of a balanced diet.

Contrary to recent media reports, fruit juice (with no added sugar) contributes only a small amount of energy and sugar to the Australian diet – about 1% of energy and 3.5% of sugar.

The research, undertaken by the CSIRO and commissioned by Fruit Juice Australia, is an independent and rigorous re-analysis of data collected in the most recent Australian Health Survey, including the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey.

The research shows that when fruit juice is counted towards fruit intake, the percentage of Australians who meet their recommended fruit intake more than doubles, from 10% to 24%.

“Our industry is made up of over 1500 growers who are passionate about delivering the best quality and most nutritious citrus fruit and juices to Australian families,” Damiani said. “Citrus growing for juice plays a critical role in a number of regional economies, particularly in the Riverina (NSW) and Riverland (SA).

“Recent alarmism around sugar, and calls to remove juice from the Australian diet have no basis in science and defy commonsense. Health fads may come and go, but they should not be allowed to threaten vital Australian agricultural sectors such as fruit growing,” she added. “Citrus Australia is proud to stand up for the inherent natural goodness of citrus fruit and juice, and the broader benefits our industry delivers. We will continue to work with all stakeholders to help ensure Australians understand the facts and continue to enjoy citrus fruit and juices as part of a balanced diet.”