Is Apple Juice Higher in Sugar Than Orange Juice?

December 10, 2025 •

3 min read

Based on USDA data, a 12-ounce serving of 100% apple juice contains approximately 35.8 grams of sugar, while the same serving of 100% orange juice has about 31 grams, indicating that apple juice is indeed higher in sugar. This difference, though slight, highlights key nutritional distinctions between the two popular juices.

Quick Summary

Apple juice contains slightly more sugar per serving than orange juice, although both are high in natural sugars and low in fiber compared to whole fruit. The main nutritional difference is that orange juice provides significantly more Vitamin C, while apple juice contains more manganese and boron.

Key Points

Sugar Content: Apple juice typically has a slightly higher sugar content per serving than orange juice.
Nutritional Edge: Orange juice is naturally rich in Vitamin C and potassium, offering a superior vitamin and mineral profile compared to apple juice.
Missing Fiber: Both juices lack the dietary fiber found in whole fruits, which causes a rapid spike in blood sugar levels after consumption.
Natural vs. Added: The body processes natural fruit sugars similarly to added sugars in liquid form, so even 100% juice can contribute to health issues if consumed excessively.
Moderation is Key: Due to their high sugar concentration and lack of fiber, both apple and orange juice should be consumed in moderation.
Whole Fruit is Better: For maximum nutritional benefits and a moderated sugar response, consuming whole apples and oranges is preferable to drinking their juice.

The seemingly simple question of whether apple juice is higher in sugar than orange juice reveals a deeper look into the nutritional composition of both beverages. While both are high in natural fruit sugars, there is a clear difference in their sugar concentration per serving. For health-conscious consumers, understanding this distinction is key to making informed dietary choices.

The Sweet Facts: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When comparing standard, 100% unsweetened juice products, a direct look at the sugar content shows that apple juice typically comes out on top in terms of total grams of sugar per serving. However, the picture is more complex when considering the types of sugars and other nutritional factors.

Sugar Content Breakdown

Total Sugar: An 8-ounce glass of 100% apple juice contains about 24 to 26 grams of sugar. The same amount of 100% orange juice has approximately 21 to 22 grams of sugar.
Types of Sugars: Apple juice primarily contains fructose, while orange juice has a higher proportion of sucrose, followed by fructose and glucose. The body processes these different sugar types similarly, leading to a quick rise in blood glucose when consumed in liquid form due to the lack of fiber.

Beyond Sugar: Key Nutritional Differences

Beyond the sugar content, the juices differ in other important nutritional aspects:

Vitamin C: Orange juice is a much richer source of Vitamin C than apple juice. While some apple juices are fortified, orange juice naturally provides significantly more.
Potassium: Orange juice also contains about twice the amount of potassium as apple juice, which is important for blood pressure and muscle function.
Fiber: Neither juice contains the significant fiber found in whole fruit. Orange juice with pulp has slightly more fiber than apple juice with pulp. Fiber helps with digestion and moderates blood sugar.

Comparative Nutritional Table


Nutrient (per 8 oz)	Apple Juice (approx.)	Orange Juice (approx.)
Calories	114	110
Total Sugar	24g	21g
Vitamin C	95mg (often fortified)	95-124mg
Potassium	250mg	250mg
Fiber	0.5g	0.5g (pulp)

Note: Nutritional values can vary between brands and whether juice is from concentrate or fresh. This table highlights typical values.

Why the Small Difference Matters

The way the body processes the sugar in juice is a key consideration. The lack of fiber in juice means the sugar is absorbed quickly, causing blood glucose spikes. The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada points out that 100% fruit juice can have similar sugar levels to soda and recommends moderation. A small serving of 4-6 ounces with a meal is suggested over large quantities.

Understanding Natural vs. Added Sugar

Always check labels for added sugars in juice drinks, as they are distinct from the natural sugars in 100% juice. However, even the concentrated natural sugars in 100% juice can be a concern if consumed excessively, as they are processed similarly in liquid form.

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Juice

While apple juice generally has a bit more sugar than orange juice, both are concentrated sources of natural sugars and should be consumed in moderation. Orange juice offers a superior natural vitamin profile, particularly Vitamin C and potassium. Eating whole fruits is the healthiest option due to their fiber content. If choosing juice, consider your overall diet and prioritize moderation. For more insights on fruit juice and sugar, see the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada's article: The truth about juice.

What are healthier alternatives to juice?

Infused water: Flavor water with fruit or herbs.
Unsweetened coconut water: A hydrating choice.
Herbal teas: Enjoy hot or cold.
Diluted fresh juice: Mix a small amount of juice with water.
Smoothies with whole fruits: Retain fiber by blending whole fruits and vegetables.

The Role of Glycemic Index

Both juices have a low glycemic index, leading to a relatively slow rise in blood sugar.
However, the absence of fiber means this is still faster than with whole fruit.
The glycemic index can vary based on fruit type and processing.

Risks of Excessive Juice Consumption

Weight gain.
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Tooth decay.
Fatty liver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apple juice generally contains slightly more sugar per serving than orange juice. For example, an 8-ounce glass of 100% apple juice has about 24-26 grams of sugar, while the same amount of 100% orange juice contains around 21-22 grams.

Yes, orange juice is a significantly better natural source of Vitamin C than apple juice. While many apple juice brands fortify their product with Vitamin C, orange juice naturally contains a much higher concentration.

In a liquid form like juice, the body absorbs natural sugars rapidly due to the lack of fiber, causing blood sugar spikes similar to those from added sugars. While juice offers some vitamins, its high sugar concentration means it should be consumed in moderation.

Eating whole fruit provides dietary fiber, which slows the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream. This prevents rapid blood sugar spikes and increases satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer. Juicing removes most of this beneficial fiber.

Yes, regular consumption of large quantities of fruit juice can lead to weight gain. Juice is calorie-dense and not very filling, making it easy to consume excess calories. High sugar intake from any source, including juice, is linked to weight gain.

Most health organizations recommend limiting fruit juice consumption to a small amount per day, such as 4 to 6 ounces (about half a cup). It's also recommended to drink it with a meal to help slow sugar absorption.

Yes, orange juice has a significantly higher concentration of potassium than apple juice. A standard serving of orange juice can provide a substantial contribution to your daily potassium intake, which is important for blood pressure regulation.