Unpasteurized apple cider can make you sick. Here's what to know before sipping the fall favorite.
CBSN
Apple cider is a fall favorite, but in some cases it can make you sick if you're not careful. Local health department are warning consumers to take notice if their cider is unpasteurized because of the risk of potential foodborne illness.
Apple cider, made from fresh apples, "is typically a bit murky and golden-colored because its unfiltered and unpasteurized. Most apple orchards don't take the time to pasteurize because it is not required," Illinois's Ogle County Health Department shared on social media. "Apple cider that has NOT been pasteurized can contain harmful bacteria that can make people sick."
The Fulton County Health Department in Georgia shared similar messaging. "Make sure to check labels this fall — it's required to disclaim if the product has been heat treated or not," the department wrote, adding that if you do purchase unpasteurized cider from an orchard, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends boiling it for at least 1 minute before drinking.