U.K. retains fruit juice in 5 A DAY program

A panel of medical experts advised Public Health England last week to retain 100 percent fruit juice as part of its 5 A DAY program.

The panel suggested that the organization maintain the level at 100 percent to increase consumption of fruit and vegetables.

A study commissioned by Public Health England indicated that fruit juice, such as 100 percent Florida orange juice, has been linked to easing high blood pressure and providing vitamin C and potassium, particularly among teens.

The 5 A DAY program suggests consuming a minimum of five servings of fruit and vegetables a day to decrease the risk of major health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and obesity. The program is based on advice from the World Health Organization.

In the U.S., 100 percent Florida orange juice consumption is considered nutritionally the same as eating whole fruit, meeting fruit-intake recommendations under U.S. Dietary Guidelines.