What are the main ingredients of orange juice?

Orange juice primarily consists of water, naturally occurring sugars, and various nutrients. The main ingredients in orange juice are:

1. Water: Orange juice is mostly composed of water, accounting for approximately 88-90% of its volume.

2. Sugars: Orange juice contains natural sugars, including fructose, glucose, and sucrose. These sugars contribute to the sweet taste of the juice.

3. Vitamin C: Orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient involved in immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.

4. Potassium: Orange juice is a good source of potassium, a mineral crucial for regulating fluid balance, muscle contractions, and maintaining a healthy blood pressure.

5. Vitamin B9 (Folate): Orange juice contains folate, a B vitamin essential for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis.

6. Vitamin A: Orange juice provides some vitamin A, a nutrient important for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune system function.

7. Citric Acid: Orange juice contains citric acid, a natural organic acid that gives the juice its characteristic tart flavor.

8. Calcium: Orange juice contains a small amount of calcium, a mineral important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

9. Magnesium: Orange juice provides some magnesium, a mineral involved in energy metabolism, muscle function, and nerve transmission.

10. Phosphorus: Orange juice contains phosphorus, a mineral that plays a vital role in bone health, energy metabolism, and cellular function.

11. Other Flavonoids: Orange juice contains various flavonoids, such as hesperidin and naringenin, which are antioxidants that may provide health benefits.

It's important to note that the exact composition of orange juice can vary depending on factors such as the type of oranges used, growing conditions, and processing methods.