The Use of Fruit Juice in the Diets of Young Children

Background

Traditionally, fruit juice has been recommended by pediatricians to provide extra free water for normal infants and young children. Apple juice and grape juice are the most commonly used, but recently, pear juice also has become popular. These juices have several advantages. They taste good, so children readily accept them, and since they are "natural," they are perceived as offering more nutritional benefit than just an increase in water intake.