If you’re looking for a juicing appliance but cannot decide between a traditional and a cold-pressed juicer, this guide might help you. I’ve identified a few points of difference to make the comparison (and your decision-making!) easier.
Juicing Method
We’ve all seen juicers made for citrus fruits. But hard produce like celery or apples needs a more specialised appliance. And there are two general types.
One of which is the cold-pressed or slow juicer that uses a hydraulic press to separate the juice from the pulp. The process involves two stages.
First, your fruit or veggie goes through a grinding or mastication phase that turns fruit or veggie into a salsa-like mixture. Second, these smaller chunks of produce move to a juice extraction stage, using lots of pressure.
On the other hand, a conventional juicer uses a fast-spinning metal blade and a mesh strainer to separate the juice from the pulp. The spinning action is similar to a blender and explains why we also call this appliance the centrifugal juicer.
It’s also the reason why traditional juicers create more noise than their quieter cold-press counterparts.
Versatility
Cold-press juicers are more versatile than traditional ones. That’s because they are more suitable for juicing leafy greens and stringy fresh ingredients like celery.
Some slow juicers also come with various strainer attachments to adjust juice texture or pulp content. Depending on the cold-press juicer model, some excel in processing nuts to make milk, too.
However, the spinning blades and faster processing of centrifugal juicers make them less efficient for juicing leafy greens and grass. Moreover, the lack of pressure makes them incapable of producing nut milk.
Preparation Time and Speed
If you prefer fast and instant juicing, a cold-pressed juicer may not be for you. That’s because prep time can take a while, as you need to pre-cut ingredients first into manageable pieces.
Also, its two-stage processing needs a longer juice extraction time. On the other hand, the extra-large feed chute of centrifugal juicers suits whole-fruit juicing.
That means preparation time is minimal. Some traditional juicers can even juice whole apples!
They also work at high speed. Specifically, centrifugal juicers run between 1000 and 30,000rpm. Slow juicers, however, can only work at an average of 70 to 120rpm.
Juice Yield, Taste and Texture
Now, while fast centrifugal juicing is impressive, there are disadvantages. For instance, traditional fast juicers tend to produce less juice and more pulp.
More pulp means more waste, so make sure you know how to repurpose them. The end product of traditional juicers is also thicker and less refined.
Plus, centrifugal juice is frothier and splits faster within minutes of extraction.
On the other hand, cold-press juicers produce a higher liquid yield, thanks to their slower speed. Also, cold-press juices have less foam and are more stable, with a refreshing, smoother mouthfeel.
Nutritional Quality
Both cold press and centrifugal juicers produce healthy drinks. These juices are easy to digest with high nutritional content.
I especially like how these juicers make it easy for us to make our preferred juice blends. You can make a juice recipe for boosting the immune system, improving your skin health and more, with either appliance.
However, if you want to keep nutrients intact in every gulp, I suggest getting a cold-pressed juicer. That’s because this option does not produce heat during the juicing process. The absence of heat means you are preserving more vitamins and minerals in the juice.
The spinning blades of centrifugal juicers, however, result in oxidation and heat generation. Both of which can destroy micronutrients and healthy enzymes, making your juice less nutritious.
Storage and Shelf Life
Since juices from a centrifugal juicer have already gone through oxidation, it’s better to drink them immediately after extraction. Otherwise, storage can further reduce their nutrient value.
Also, the quality of these juices does not last long. They break down pretty quickly, and their colour becomes less appealing within minutes.
Cold-pressed juices are more stable and suitable for storage. They should stay fresh in a sealed glass jar for 2 to 4 days in the fridge.
But in general, fresh juices are at their best right after extraction. So, ideally, make a batch enough for immediate consumption.
Cost
If you are after a budget-friendly kitchen appliance, then you should be checking out centrifugal juicer models. They are readily available, and you can opt for a branded model without spending a lot.
On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile juicer that makes the best-tasting juice, consider looking at cold-pressed juicer options. They are typically more expensive, but the extra cost also comes with better functions or innovative features.
Which Juicer is for You?
Centrifugal and cold press juicers are two distinct juicing appliances made for our individual needs. And so, if you do not mind spending extra to make bottles of nutritious juice or all-natural nut milk, go for a cold-pressed juicer.
However, if speed, convenience and low cost are on your priority list, then you’re better off with a centrifugal juicer. This option is also best if you’ll be using fresh juices for cooking or baking rather than drinking.
Whichever juicing method you choose, I am sure your body will not complain about the high-quality juice benefits you’re giving it!
Keen to try juicing at home? Check out my cold-press juicer reviews and buying guide!
