Unpasteurized Product Warning

⚠️ Important Safety Warning

All Juice Lab products contain raw, unpasteurized juice.

What Does Unpasteurized Mean?

Unpasteurized (or raw) juice has not been heat-treated to kill potentially harmful bacteria. We choose to keep our juices raw and unpasteurized to preserve:

  • Maximum nutrients and vitamins
  • Live enzymes
  • Natural flavors
  • Beneficial plant compounds

However, this also means our products may contain bacteria that could cause illness in certain individuals.

⚠️ WARNING: Who Should NOT Consume Our Products

Unpasteurized juices may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in:

  • Children - Young immune systems are more vulnerable to foodborne illness
  • The Elderly - Weakened immune systems increase risk of infection
  • Pregnant Women - Risk to both mother and unborn baby; can cause miscarriage or serious complications
  • Persons with Weakened Immune Systems - Including those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, or taking immunosuppressive medications

If you fall into any of these categories, DO NOT consume our products without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Potential Health Risks

Consuming unpasteurized juice may expose you to harmful bacteria including:

  • E. coli
  • Salmonella
  • Listeria
  • Cryptosporidium

These bacteria can cause serious foodborne illness with symptoms such as:

  • Severe stomach cramps
  • Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Dehydration

In severe cases, particularly in vulnerable populations, these illnesses can lead to:

  • Hospitalization
  • Kidney failure
  • Miscarriage or stillbirth (in pregnant women)
  • Death (in extreme cases)

Why We Choose Unpasteurized

Despite the risks, we believe in the benefits of raw, cold-pressed juice for healthy adults:

  • Maximum Nutrition: Heat from pasteurization destroys some vitamins and enzymes
  • Live Enzymes: Raw juice contains beneficial enzymes that aid digestion
  • Better Taste: Unpasteurized juice has a fresher, more vibrant flavor
  • Whole Food Benefits: Preserves the natural integrity of fruits and vegetables

Safety Measures We Take

While our products are unpasteurized, we take extensive precautions to minimize risk:

  • Use only high-quality, organic produce
  • Thoroughly wash and sanitize all ingredients
  • Maintain strict sanitation protocols in our facility
  • Use cold-press extraction to minimize bacterial growth
  • Keep products refrigerated at all times
  • Clearly label all products with expiration dates
  • Follow all local health department regulations

How to Safely Consume Our Products

If you choose to consume our unpasteurized products, follow these safety guidelines:

Storage:

  • Keep refrigerated at all times (below 40°F/4°C)
  • Never leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
  • Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator

Consumption:

  • Consume by the date indicated on the bottle
  • Check the bottle before drinking - do not consume if damaged, leaking, or swollen
  • Smell and inspect the juice - discard if it smells or looks unusual
  • Do not consume if the juice has separated excessively or changed color

Handling:

  • Wash your hands before handling
  • Keep bottles sealed until ready to drink
  • Do not share bottles to prevent contamination
  • Discard any unused portion after opening (do not save for later)

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms after consuming our products, seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Persistent vomiting
  • High fever (over 101.5°F/38.6°C)
  • Signs of dehydration (dizziness, decreased urination, extreme thirst)
  • Symptoms lasting more than 3 days

Tell your healthcare provider that you consumed unpasteurized juice.

Pregnant Women - Special Warning

If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, DO NOT consume our products.

Listeria infection during pregnancy can cause:

  • Miscarriage
  • Stillbirth
  • Premature delivery
  • Life-threatening infection in the newborn

Even if you feel healthy, listeria can harm your baby. The risk is not worth it. Choose pasteurized juices during pregnancy.

Your Responsibility

By purchasing and consuming Juice Lab products, you acknowledge that:

  • You have read and understood this warning
  • You are aware that our products are unpasteurized and may contain harmful bacteria
  • You understand the potential health risks
  • You do not fall into any of the high-risk categories listed above, OR you have consulted with your healthcare provider
  • You accept full responsibility for any consequences of consuming our products
  • You will follow all storage and handling instructions

Questions or Concerns?

If you have questions about the safety of our products or whether they're appropriate for you:

  • Consult your healthcare provider - They can advise based on your individual health status
  • Contact us - We're happy to answer questions about our products and processes
  • Read our full Health Disclaimer - For comprehensive health and safety information

Federal Requirement

This warning is required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all unpasteurized juice products sold in the United States.

Your health and safety are our top priority. Please take this warning seriously and make informed decisions about consuming our products.