Includes Vegetable Juice

Vegetable juice is made from the liquid extracted from vegetables. It can be produced from a single vegetable or a blend of several. The process typically involves washing, chopping, and pressing the vegetables to release their juices, which may then be pasteurized or otherwise treated for preservation.

Manufacturers use vegetable juice primarily as a natural coloring agent to enhance the visual appeal of foods. It can also contribute subtle flavor notes. You'll often find it in products like candies, snacks, and beverages where a vibrant, natural color is desired.

In the US, vegetable juice used as a food ingredient is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used for its intended purpose. It is a source of vitamins and minerals found in the vegetables it comes from. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many food ingredients, including those derived from vegetables. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from consuming vegetable juice at typical dietary levels.