Apple Cider

Guide Note:Apple Cider is a non-alcoholic beverage made from compressed apples. Less clear and more tart then apple juice, apple cider must be refrigerated when stored since it is not filtered. Most cider is now pasteurized because unpasteurized cider can potentially harbor E. Coli bacteria.

The first documentation of cider is from around 55BC in Kent, England. By the 9th century, it was a common beverage throughout Europe, although much of this cider was likely fermented hard cider, an alcoholic drink. In colonial America, cider was the most popular beverage, although cider drinking began to decline in England during this period.

Cider has resurged in popularity in recent years. In parts of New England and New York, the cider doughnut is considered the perfect accompaniment to a glass of apple cider.

Fast Facts:

1. Good source of potassium and iron
2. Associated with harvest
3. Used to celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving
4. Made with a blend of different types of apples
5. High in antioxidants