During the hot summer, many chain beverage shops and convenience stores offer various drinks, among which beverages with added fresh fruit juice are especially popular and become the go-to choice for many people to cool off. However, with increasing food safety concerns, how can one enjoy these drinks safely? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides some key tips to help consumers ensure safety when purchasing.
FDA Deputy Director Lin Jinfu stated that according to the "Labeling Requirements for On-Site Prepared Beverages in Chain Beverage Shops, Convenience Stores, and Fast Food Industries," businesses must list the total sugar content, total calorie content, total caffeine content, and the country of origin of tea leaves and coffee ingredients on beverage labels. This information helps consumers understand the drink's ingredients and make healthier choices. 
Label for on-site prepared beverages. (Image provided by Heho Health)
Regarding the labeling of fruit and vegetable juice drinks, if the fruit or vegetable juice content exceeds 10%, the name can be labeled as “XX Juice.” If the content is less than 10%, it should be labeled as “XX Drink.” If no fruit or vegetable juice is included, the product should be labeled as “XX Flavor.” These labels can be displayed via cards, menus, tags, boards, QR codes, or other electronic means.
Moreover, packaged fruit and vegetable juices must follow the “Labeling Requirements for Marketed Packaged Beverages Claiming to Contain Fruit or Vegetable Juice.” If the total fruit or vegetable juice content exceeds 10%, the “original juice content” must be indicated, and the product can be labeled as “Mixed Fruit (Vegetable) Juice.” If the content is below 10%, it should be labeled as “Fruit (Vegetable) Juice Content Less Than 10%” or “No Fruit (Vegetable) Juice,” and the name should include “Flavor” or “Taste.”
Label for commercially packaged beverages. (Image provided by Heho Health)
The FDA reminds consumers to pay attention to the labeling of on-site prepared beverages or packaged fruit and vegetable juices when purchasing to ensure food safety while enjoying delicious drinks. By following these simple steps, consumers can enjoy refreshing summer beverages with greater peace of mind.
