Is it okay to drink Simply Orange?

January 7, 2026 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, an 8-ounce serving of orange juice can provide over 100% of your daily vitamin C. However, when considering store-bought brands, many consumers wonder, "Is it okay to drink Simply Orange?" The answer depends on your overall diet and health goals.

Quick Summary

This guide provides an in-depth nutritional analysis of Simply Orange, exploring its vitamin content, sugar levels, and pasteurization process. It compares bottled juice to whole fruit, offering insights into how Simply Orange fits into a balanced diet.

Key Points

Moderate Consumption: Simply Orange is okay in moderation but is not a substitute for whole fruit due to its high sugar and low fiber content.
High in Vitamin C: An 8-ounce glass of Simply Orange is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is vital for immune support.
High in Sugar: The product contains a significant amount of natural sugar without the fiber found in whole fruit, potentially causing blood sugar spikes.
Processing Matters: Though not from concentrate, the juice is pasteurized and may have flavor packs added to ensure consistent taste, unlike freshly squeezed juice.
Whole Fruit is Superior: For the best nutritional profile, eating a whole orange provides more fiber and a more balanced nutrient absorption experience.
Dietary Balance: Be mindful of Simply Orange's calorie density, especially if you are managing weight or blood sugar levels.
Lawsuit Concerns: Legal action has been brought against the parent company concerning alleged PFAS chemicals in some Simply products, raising consumer transparency questions.
Mindful Choice: Consider your overall diet and health goals when deciding how often to consume Simply Orange or other fruit juices.

What Exactly is Simply Orange?

Simply Orange is a popular brand of orange juice, but it's important to understand what you're consuming. The product is 100% pure-squeezed and never from concentrate, meaning the juice is directly extracted from oranges. This might sound like it's just like a freshly squeezed juice, but the reality is more complex due to modern food processing. To ensure a consistent taste and a long shelf life, the juice is flash-pasteurized and stored in deoxygenated tanks for months. While this process is safe, it can diminish some of the delicate flavor and aroma compounds found in truly fresh juice. To compensate, the manufacturer may add back concentrated orange essence to maintain a uniform taste experience year-round.

The Nutritional Pros and Cons of Simply Orange

On the plus side, a single 8-ounce glass of Simply Orange is a potent source of vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function, collagen formation, and antioxidant protection. Some varieties are also fortified with calcium and vitamin D, offering additional bone health benefits. However, a significant drawback is its high sugar content. An 8-ounce serving of Simply Orange contains around 22-23 grams of natural fruit sugar, with none of the dietary fiber that would be found in a whole orange. This means your body absorbs the sugar quickly, leading to a potential spike in blood sugar, which can be a concern for those managing diabetes or weight. Excessive consumption can also contribute to weight gain over time due to the high calorie density and lack of fiber to promote satiety.

Simply Orange vs. The Whole Orange

The biggest nutritional difference between drinking Simply Orange and eating a whole orange is the fiber content. A medium whole orange contains about 3 grams of fiber, while most pulp-free Simply Orange contains virtually none. This fiber is crucial for regulating blood sugar, promoting digestive health, and keeping you feeling full for longer. While the juice offers a quick and easy dose of vitamins, the whole fruit provides a more balanced nutritional package. When considering which is the better option, think about your priorities. Are you looking for a quick vitamin boost, or a more satiating and balanced snack? Eating the whole fruit is almost always the more nutritionally complete choice.

Potential Health Concerns

Beyond sugar content, there are other considerations. A class-action lawsuit filed against Simply Beverages alleged that some of its products, including Simply Tropical, contained harmful PFAS 'forever chemicals,' contradicting the brand's 'all-natural' marketing claims. While the company denies these claims and a judge initially dismissed the suit, a revised lawsuit with broader testing evidence has since been filed. This highlights the complex nature of even seemingly 'simple' processed foods and the importance of being an informed consumer. Excessive consumption of any fruit juice can also lead to issues like enamel erosion due to its acidic nature.

Comparison Table: Simply Orange vs. Whole Orange


Feature	Simply Orange (8 oz)	Whole Orange (Medium)
Calories	~110	~62
Sugar	~22-23g	~12g
Dietary Fiber	0g	~3g
Vitamin C	High (over 100% DV)	High (similar amount)
Satiety	Low	High
Processing	Pasteurized, flavor-enhanced	None

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether it is okay to drink Simply Orange depends on how it fits into your diet. It can be a convenient source of vitamin C, but its high sugar content and lack of fiber mean it should be consumed in moderation, especially if you have blood sugar concerns. For the most balanced nutritional benefit, eating a whole orange is the superior choice, providing fiber and less concentrated sugar. Think of Simply Orange as a treat or an occasional vitamin boost, not a daily replacement for whole fruit. As with any food decision, prioritizing balance and whole foods is key to maintaining good health. The Washington Post reviewed the total sugar on nutrition labels of several top grocery brands.

Final Thoughts on Moderation

Enjoying a glass of Simply Orange occasionally is generally fine for most healthy individuals. However, relying on it as a primary source of vitamins instead of eating whole fruits is not advisable. Be mindful of the sugar content and its impact on your overall caloric intake. If you're looking for a refreshing drink, consider smaller portions or exploring options with less sugar. Understanding the difference between juice and whole fruit is the key to making informed dietary choices that support your health and wellness goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Simply Orange does not have added sugars. The sugar content comes exclusively from the natural sugars found in the oranges themselves.

No, Simply Orange is proudly 'not from concentrate.' The juice is squeezed directly from fresh oranges.

Pasteurization is a heat-treating process that kills bacteria and extends the juice's shelf life. Simply Orange is gently pasteurized to ensure safety while preserving taste.

That depends on your priorities. Some consumers prefer Simply Orange's taste profile and not-from-concentrate status, but it is still high in sugar like most fruit juices. Nutritionally, it is very similar to other premium orange juice brands.

Yes, excessive consumption could be harmful due to high sugar and calorie intake, which can lead to weight gain and blood sugar fluctuations. As with all juices, moderation is key.

No, Simply Orange, especially the pulp-free varieties, has almost no dietary fiber. This is a significant nutritional difference when compared to a whole orange.

For a healthier option, consider eating a whole orange, which provides fiber and less concentrated sugar. Alternatively, dilute your juice with water or choose a brand with reduced sugar, like Simply Light, which uses stevia.

To maintain a uniform taste, the juice is stored in deoxygenated tanks after pasteurization. Before bottling, flavor packs made from natural orange essence may be added to restore the lost aroma and flavor.