Juice lovers in the UK are spoilt for choice, but not all juices are created equal. Cold press drinks have revolutionized the juice industry by offering superior nutrition and taste compared to traditional options. Understanding the difference between cold pressed juice and regular juice can help you make smarter choices for your health and budget.
The short answer: cold press drinks preserve more nutrients, taste fresher, and contain no heat-damaged vitamins—though they cost more and have shorter shelf lives. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the key differences, explore science-backed health benefits, and help you decide which option best fits your lifestyle.
Cold press drinks, also known as cold pressed juices, are made using a hydraulic press that gently squeezes juice from fresh fruits and vegetables. Unlike traditional juicing methods that rely on fast-spinning blades, cold pressing applies steady pressure without generating heat.
Step 1: Fruits and vegetables are crushed into a fine pulp
Step 2: The pulp is slowly pressed using thousands of pounds of hydraulic pressure
Step 3: Juice is extracted without heat or excessive oxygen exposure
Result: Smooth, nutrient-dense juice with vibrant flavor and maximum nutritional value
Key feature: No heat or oxygen exposure means heat-sensitive vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants remain intact. This preservation of nutrients is what sets cold press drinks apart from conventional juicing methods.
This method has become increasingly popular in the UK, especially among health-conscious consumers seeking more than just a sugary drink. Cold pressed juice represents a return to traditional extraction methods that prioritize quality over convenience.
"Regular juice" typically refers to juices made using centrifugal juicing or mass-produced commercial methods. These juices are characterized by:
High-speed blade extraction: Fast-spinning blades (up to 15,000 RPM) that generate significant heat during the juicing process
Pasteurization: Heat treatment (typically 70-90°C) to extend shelf life and kill bacteria, which also destroys heat-sensitive nutrients
From concentrate production: Fruit is juiced, boiled down into concentrated syrup, then reconstituted with water before bottling
Added preservatives: Chemical preservatives, artificial flavors, and added sugars to enhance taste and extend shelf life
Regular juice is widely available, affordable, and convenient for everyday consumption. However, the heat-intensive processing can significantly reduce nutrient levels, destroy beneficial enzymes, and alter the natural flavor profile of fresh fruit.
Cold press drinks: Retain 3-5 times more vitamins, minerals, and live enzymes because there's no heat exposure. Vitamin C, vitamin A, and delicate antioxidants like polyphenols are preserved at near-fresh fruit levels.
Regular juice: Heat and processing can degrade 30-50% of certain nutrients. Often fortified later with synthetic vitamins to compensate for losses during pasteurization.
Winner: Cold press drinks for maximum nutritional value.
Cold press drinks: Taste remarkably close to fresh fruit—vibrant, crisp, naturally sweet, and less foamy with smooth texture.
Regular juice: Sometimes tastes flat, overly sweet, or artificial, especially if made from concentrate or heavily processed.
Winner: Cold press drinks for authentic flavor.
Cold press drinks: Shorter shelf life—typically 3-5 days for raw, unpasteurized juices or up to 30 days if preserved using High-Pressure Processing (HPP).
Regular juice: Can last weeks or months due to pasteurization, preservatives, and shelf-stable packaging.
Winner: Regular juice for convenience and storage flexibility.
Cold press drinks: Premium pricing (£4-8 per bottle) due to specialized equipment, higher produce volume per bottle, and smaller-scale production.
Regular juice: Affordable (£1-3 per bottle), available in every supermarket and convenience store.
Winner: Regular juice for budget-conscious buyers.
Cold press drinks: Richer in natural antioxidants, phytonutrients, and digestive enzymes. Favored in detox routines and by fitness enthusiasts.
Regular juice: Still hydrating and provides some vitamins, but may contain added sugars and lacks the enzymatic benefits of raw juice.
Winner: Cold press drinks for health optimization.
Cold pressing isn't just trendy marketing—it represents a genuine leap forward in juice quality and nutritional science.
The absence of heat means temperature-sensitive vitamins remain bioavailable. Studies show cold pressed juice retains up to 60% more vitamin C compared to heat-pasteurized alternatives. This matters significantly for immune function and antioxidant protection.
Raw, cold pressed juices contain active digestive enzymes (like amylase and protease) that remain intact without heat processing. These enzymes aid nutrient absorption and support gut health—benefits completely absent in pasteurized juices.
Premium cold press drinks typically contain just fruits and vegetables—no additives, hidden sweeteners, or artificial flavors. You're drinking pure plant nutrition without chemical interference.
Many UK cold press brands prioritize recyclable glass bottles, organic produce sourcing, and reduced food waste through whole-fruit utilization. This aligns with growing consumer demand for sustainable food choices.
That's why more UK consumers are switching to cold press options, even at premium prices—the health returns justify the investment.
Because the pressing process preserves vitamin C, vitamin A, and phytonutrients like quercetin, cold pressed juices provide powerful immune system support. Citrus-based blends (orange, lemon, grapefruit) are particularly effective for seasonal immunity.
Research shows that regular consumption of antioxidant-rich juices can reduce inflammatory markers and support white blood cell function.
Vegetable-based cold press drinks, such as cucumber and celery blends, are over 90% water with naturally occurring electrolytes. They hydrate more effectively than sugar-laden processed juices, which can actually contribute to dehydration through osmotic effects.
Carrot, beetroot, and spinach juices deliver beta-carotene, vitamin A, and silica—compounds scientifically linked to improved skin elasticity and reduced inflammation. Cold pressing ensures these delicate nutrients remain bioavailable for cellular uptake.
Many users report visible skin improvements within 2-4 weeks of daily cold pressed juice consumption.
Unlike caffeinated energy drinks that cause crashes, cold press juices energize with natural fruit sugars, minerals like potassium and magnesium, and B-vitamins from vegetables. Apple-ginger-celery blends provide quick fuel without blood sugar spikes.
The living enzymes in raw juice also reduce digestive burden, freeing up energy for other bodily functions.
Cold press drinks retain natural digestive enzymes that aid nutrient breakdown and absorption. They're often easier on sensitive stomachs than pasteurized juices, which have lost these natural digestive helpers.
For those with IBS or digestive sensitivities, cold pressed vegetable juices can provide nutrients without the fiber that sometimes triggers discomfort.
Two categories dominate the UK cold press market, each with distinct benefits:
Typical ingredients: Kale, spinach, cucumber, celery, parsley, lemon
Primary benefits:
Best for: Fitness enthusiasts, those following clean-eating plans, morning energy without sugar
Taste profile: Fresh, slightly bitter, herbaceous—often balanced with apple or lemon
Typical ingredients: Carrot, beetroot, celery, parsley, ginger, turmeric
Primary benefits:
Best for: Those seeking balanced nutrition, post-workout recovery, sustained energy
Taste profile: Earthy, slightly sweet, robust—naturally palatable without added fruit
Beginner tip: If you're new to cold press drinks, start with a fruit-forward green juice (apple + spinach + cucumber) before progressing to more robust vegetable-heavy blends. This allows your palate to adapt gradually.
While cold pressed juice has clear nutritional advantages, regular juice isn't without legitimate use cases:
Wide availability: Found in every supermarket, petrol station, and corner shop—convenient for on-the-go hydration
Budget-friendly: At £1-3 per liter, regular juice is accessible to all income brackets and families
Longer shelf life: Perfect for households that don't consume juice quickly or want emergency pantry supplies
Familiar flavors: Children and adults accustomed to sweeter, milder tastes may prefer regular juice initially
Fortified options: Some mass-market juices are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, or omega-3s, adding specific nutritional value
If you're looking for occasional convenience and basic hydration, regular juice still serves a practical purpose in balanced diets.
When shopping for cold press drinks in the UK, knowing what to check on labels ensures you get genuine quality:
✓ "Cold pressed" or "HPP" – Confirms hydraulic pressing method
✓ "Not from concentrate" – Indicates fresh juice, not reconstituted syrup
✓ "No added sugar" – Means only natural fruit sugars present
✓ Organic certification – UK Soil Association or EU organic logos guarantee pesticide-free ingredients
✓ Short ingredient list – Best juices contain only fruits and vegetables, nothing more
✓ Glass packaging – Preserves freshness better than plastic and avoids chemical leaching
✓ Refrigeration requirement – Raw juices must be kept cold; shelf-stable "cold pressed" claims may indicate HPP processing
For detoxification: Green juices with kale, celery, lemon, ginger
For energy: Apple-carrot-ginger or orange-pineapple-turmeric blends
For immunity: Citrus-heavy combinations with elderberry or acerola cherry
For digestion: Vegetable-based options with fennel, cucumber, mint
For hydration: Coconut water blends or cucumber-based drinks
For skin health: Carrot-beetroot-apple with added vitamin E
✗ "Juice drink" or "juice beverage" (indicates <95% actual juice)
✗ Added sugars, corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners
✗ "From concentrate" or "reconstituted"
✗ Artificial colors (often listed as "natural colors" from concentrate)
✗ Long ingredient lists with unfamiliar chemical names
✗ Excessively long shelf life for "raw" juice (suggests heavy processing)
The UK market for cold pressed juices has experienced 40% growth since 2020, driven by increasing health consciousness and demand for premium beverages.
Major UK supermarkets (Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Tesco) now offer own-brand "cold pressed" juices in chilled sections. While convenient, these are typically HPP-processed to achieve 30-day shelf lives, which extends freshness but involves some nutrient compromise compared to raw alternatives.
Some cafés, health food shops, and meal delivery services include cold pressed juices as part of detox packages or wellness subscriptions. These provide cost-effective opportunities to sample various flavor profiles before committing to regular purchases.
Ready to experience premium quality? Explore London Juice Company's range or download our catalogue to discover our full selection of functional beverages.
For ultimate control over ingredients and cost savings, home cold pressing is increasingly popular:
Dedicated cold press (masticating) juicers: £150-500, slow auger extraction preserves maximum nutrients
Hydraulic press systems: £500+, commercial-quality results for serious enthusiasts
Budget alternative: High-powered blender + nut milk bag (produces similar results with slightly more pulp)
Ingredients:
Method:
Yield: Approximately 500ml of nutrient-dense juice
Pro tip: Always drink cold pressed juice on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals for optimal nutrient absorption. The absence of fiber means nutrients enter your bloodstream quickly.
Maximizing freshness and safety with cold press drinks:
Fresh juice should:
Discard if:
✓ Prioritize maximum nutritional value and bioavailable nutrients
✓ Want authentic fresh fruit/vegetable taste without artificial flavors
✓ Are willing to pay premium prices for superior quality
✓ Can consume juice within 3-5 days of purchase
✓ Value sustainable, organic, pesticide-free ingredients
✓ Seek therapeutic benefits from concentrated plant compounds
✓ Follow health-optimization or athletic performance diets
✓ Need budget-friendly options for family consumption
✓ Want long shelf life for pantry stocking
✓ Prefer widely available convenience
✓ Are satisfied with basic vitamin content (even if synthetic)
✓ Don't have access to premium juice retailers
✓ Prioritize sweetness and familiar flavors over nutrition
✓ Want juice as occasional treat rather than health tool
The Best Approach: Many health-conscious UK consumers use both strategically—regular juice for everyday convenience and cold pressed options for targeted nutrition when health benefits matter most.
So, cold press drinks vs regular juice—which wins?
If you value maximum nutrition, fresh taste, and clean ingredients, cold press drinks are the clear winner. They're perfect for health-conscious individuals who want to fuel their bodies with concentrated plant nutrition rather than just hydration and sugar.
If you prioritize budget and convenience, regular juice still holds a practical place in your fridge. It's widely available, affordable, and provides basic hydration and vitamins despite processing losses.
For most people, the answer isn't either/or—it's strategic usage. Keep regular juice for everyday convenience, but reach for cold pressed options when you want the best in flavor, nutrition, and health optimization.
Experience the difference yourself: Discover London Juice Company's premium cold pressed drinks—crafted with carefully selected organic produce, no artificial additives, and the pure taste of nature. Our range includes energizing fruit blends, superfood-enhanced drinks, and innovative herb-infused beverages designed for health-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise.
Shop our full range → | Contact us for bulk orders → | Download our catalogue →
Q1: Are cold pressed drinks healthy?
Yes, they’re very healthy. Cold pressing retains most vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants by avoiding heat. These juices boost energy, immunity, and detoxification when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Q2: What are the disadvantages of cold-pressed juice?
They’re expensive (£4–8 per bottle), have a short shelf life, and lack fiber, which can cause sugar spikes from concentrated fruit juices.
Q3: What are the disadvantages of cold pressing?
Cold pressing needs costly equipment, more produce per serving, and careful cold storage. The juice also oxidizes quickly, increasing production costs for commercial makers.
Q4: Is cold-pressed juice good for pregnancy?
It’s nutritious but unpasteurized juice can pose bacterial risks. Pregnant women should pick pasteurized or HPP-treated options and consult a healthcare provider first.
Q5: What is the healthiest cold-pressed juice?
Green juices with kale, celery, cucumber, and lemon are healthiest—low in sugar, rich in minerals, and great for daily nutrition.
Q6: Why does my stomach hurt after drinking cold-pressed juice?
It may be from concentrated fruit sugars, acidity, or drinking on an empty stomach. Try diluting juice or choosing vegetable-based blends.
Q7: What is a cold-pressed drink?
It’s juice extracted using hydraulic pressure instead of heat, preserving natural nutrients and enzymes for a fresher, richer taste.
Q8: Which is better, cold-pressed or centrifugal?
Cold-pressed retains more nutrients and enzymes, while centrifugal juicers are faster and cheaper but lose some nutritional value.
Q9: What does 100% cold-pressed mean?
It means juice made only through pressure, without added water, heat, or concentrate—pure, raw, and nutrient-dense.
Q10: Is it healthy to drink cold-pressed juice?
Yes, it’s nutrient-rich and supports energy and detox. However, it shouldn’t replace whole fruits or vegetables since it lacks fiber.
Q11: What are the cons of a cold press juicer?
They’re expensive, slower to use, need extra prep, and are harder to clean than standard juicers.
Q12: Does cold press juicing destroy nutrients?
No, it preserves about 85–95% of nutrients since no heat is involved in the juicing process.
Q13: Is cold-pressed juicing better?
Yes, it keeps more vitamins and enzymes intact, offering better taste and nutrition than heat-based juicing.
Q14: What is the healthiest type of juicer?
Cold press (masticating) juicers are best—they preserve nutrients and keep juice fresh for up to 72 hours.
Q15: What veggies should not be juiced together?
Avoid mixing cruciferous veggies with fruits, and don’t combine starchy vegetables with acidic fruits to prevent bloating.
Q16: What is the 80/20 rule for juicing?
Use 80% vegetables and 20% fruits for balanced nutrition and controlled sugar levels.
Q17: What is 20 to juicing?
It’s the same 20% fruit, 80% vegetable ratio that limits sugar to keep juices healthier.
Q18: What is in 80/20 to lose weight?
An 80% veggie and 20% fruit juice supports weight loss with fewer calories and more nutrients.
Q19: Why is juicing not healthy?
It removes fiber, concentrates sugar, and can replace whole foods if overused. Moderate intake is fine.
Q20: What vegetable damages your insides?
No single vegetable does, but excessive raw cruciferous veggies can affect thyroid function.
Q21: Is it healthier to blend or juice vegetables?
Blending is healthier since it keeps fiber, but juicing delivers nutrients faster and easier to digest.
Q22: Does cold-pressed juice cause bloating?
It can, due to fruit sugars fermenting in the gut. Drink slowly or choose veggie-based juices.
Q23: What is the best 80/20 ratio to lose weight?
Use 80% watery vegetables like celery and cucumber and 20% tart fruits for a low-calorie, filling juice.
Q24: What is the 80/20 rule to lose weight?
Eat 80% nutrient-rich whole foods and 20% treats; in juicing, keep 80% veggies and 20% fruit for balance.
The London Juice Company team brings together years of expertise in the juice and beverage industry, combining a passion for health and flavour with global distribution knowledge. Our content is crafted to inspire both juice enthusiasts and business owners, offering trusted insights, flavour combinations, and industry trends. We’re dedicated to sharing our love for fresh, natural juices and helping you enjoy the benefits of a vibrant, healthy lifestyle, no matter the season.
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