How does a centrifugal juicer work?

A centrifugal juicer works by using centrifugal force, generated by a spinning basket, to separate the juice from the pulp in fruits and vegetables. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how a centrifugal juicer operates:

1. Preparation: The first step is to prepare your fruits and vegetables by washing and cutting them into pieces that fit the juicer's feed tube.

2. Feeding the Produce: Insert the prepared produce into the juicer's feed tube. Some centrifugal juicers have a continuous feed system, while others may require you to manually push the produce down the chute.

3. Shredding: The juicer's motor powers a rapidly spinning grater or blade, which shreds the produce into small pieces, releasing the juice.

4. Centrifugal Separation: The shredded produce is then thrown against the inner walls of the spinning basket due to the centrifugal force. This force pushes the heavier pulp and solids toward the outer edge of the basket while the juice, being lighter, moves toward the center.

5. Juice Extraction: The juicer's strainer, usually made of metal or plastic mesh with tiny holes, allows the extracted juice to pass through while catching the pulp, seeds, and skin. The juice flows into a collection container placed beneath the juicer.

6. Pulp Ejection: The remaining pulp, along with the seeds and skin, is ejected from the juicer through a separate pulp outlet or spout.

7. Collecting the Juice: The extracted juice is collected in the provided container, which can usually be covered and stored in the refrigerator.

It's important to note that centrifugal juicers are best suited for juicing hard fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and beets. Softer fruits and leafy greens might yield less juice or require additional straining to remove excess pulp.

Centrifugal juicers operate at high speeds, which can generate heat and potentially damage heat-sensitive nutrients in the produce. Therefore, it's recommended to consume freshly made juices soon after juicing to get the maximum nutritional benefits.