Is slow juicer and cold press the same?

Juicing has become an increasingly popular way for health-conscious people to get more vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from fruits and vegetables. There are different types of juicers on the market, and two terms you may come across are “slow juicer” and “cold press juicer.” But are they actually the same thing? Let’s take a closer look.

What is a Slow Juicer?

A slow juicer, also known as a masticating juicer, works by using a screw-like auger to slowly crush and press produce to extract juice. The auger turns at speeds around 80-100 RPM, much slower than traditional centrifugal juicers that can spin at up to 15,000 RPM. The slow crushing and pressing action gently squeezes out juice without introducing too much heat or oxygen which can degrade nutrients.

Key features of slow juicers:

• Auger spins at 80-100 RPM
• Produce is slowly crushed and pressed
• Generates little heat so nutrients are preserved
• Minimal oxidation for longer lasting juice

Some of the benefits of slow juicers include:

• Higher juice yields from produce
• Dryer pulp as more juice is extracted
• Juice can be stored for longer
• Versatility to make nut milks, sorbets, etc

What is a Cold Press Juicer?

A cold press juicer is a type of slow juicer. The term “cold press” comes from the gentle, slow crushing action that doesn’t introduce heat from fast spinning blades. Cold pressing is done at lower temperatures to minimize heat buildup and oxidation, preserving nutrients and enzymes.

Key features of cold press juicers:

• Also called masticating or slow juicers
• Use a single auger to crush produce
• Spin at 80-100 RPM
• Generates minimal heat during juicing

Benefits of cold press juicers are the same as slow juicers:

• Preserves nutrients and enzymes
• Minimizes oxidation
• Higher juice yields
• Versatile for making other foods

The Difference Between Slow and Cold Press Juicers

Slow juicers and cold press juicers refer to the same type of juicing technology. The key distinction is:

• Slow juicer is the broad term for masticating juicers.
• Cold press juicer refers specifically to the gentle, slower crushing action of these juicers.

So in summary:

• All cold press juicers are slow juicers
• But not all slow juicers are explicitly called “cold press”

The terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of juicer.

Slow Juicer vs Cold Press Juicer Comparison

To understand how slow and cold press juicers are the same thing, let’s compare them across some key factors:

Factor	Slow Juicer	Cold Press Juicer
Speed	80-100 RPM	80-100 RPM
Mechanism	Single auger crushes produce	Single auger crushes produce
Heat Generation	Low	Low
Oxidation Levels	Minimal	Minimal
Nutrient Retention	High	High
Juice Yield	High	High
Pulp	Very dry	Very dry

As you can see, slow juicers and cold press juicers are functionally the same. The only difference is in the naming and branding terminology used.

Top Models of Slow and Cold Press Juicers

Many popular juicer models on the market today actually can be described as both slow and cold press juicers. Here are some top rated options:

Tribest Slowstar

• Auger spins at 47 RPM
• Dual-stage process for max juice yields
• Minimal oxidation for up to 72 hours of juice storage
• 10 year warranty

Kuvings CS600

• 60 RPM single auger
• Food processor and pasta nozzle attachments
• BPA free components
• 10 year warranty

Omega NC800

• 80 RPM auger speed
• High juice yield with very dry pulp
• Longer lasting juice up to 72 hours
• 15 year warranty

Aicook Slow Masticating Juicer

• 60 RPM single auger
• Quiet motor and reverse function
• Juice and sorbet attachments
• 3 year warranty

Mueller Austria Juicer

• 60 RPM cold press masticator
• Yields 20% more juice than competitors
• Anti-drip design and large 3″ feed chute
• 2 year warranty

While their naming and marketing may focus on either being “slow” or “cold press”, these top rated juicers utilize the same masticating technology to produce nutritious, enzyme-rich juices.

What to Look for in a Slow or Cold Press Juicer

Given that slow juicers and cold press juicers are essentially the same, here are some key factors to look for if buying one:

• Auger RPM – Look for RPM around 60-100. Slower is better to minimize oxidation.
• Single auger – Models with just one auger will be easier to clean.
• Chute size – Larger 3-4 inch chutes allow bigger produce.
• Juice yield – Check if dry pulp and high juice volume is noted.
• Easy to clean – Dishwasher safe parts are convenient.
• Warranty – 10-15 years reflects a quality build.

Extra features like multiple speed settings, attachments, or a reverse function also add functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a slow juicer the same as a masticating juicer?

Yes, a slow juicer and a masticating juicer are the same. The terms are used interchangeably to refer to juicers that use a slow spinning auger to crush and press out juice.

Is a cold press juicer better than a centrifugal juicer?

Cold press juicers are generally considered better than centrifugal juicers. Centrifugal juicers spin at very high speeds which generates heat and introduces air, destroying enzymes and vitamins. Cold pressing preserves more nutrients.

Can you store juice from a cold press juicer longer?

Yes, juice from cold press juicers can typically be stored for up to 72 hours in the fridge with minimal nutrient degradation. The lower oxidation from slow juicing prevents the juice from spoiling as quickly.

Are vertical slow juicers better?

Vertical slow juicers may have some advantages over horizontal models. The vertical orientation means gravity helps pull produce down onto the auger with less need to push it in manually. They can also take up less counter space.

What can you make with a cold press juicer?

The versatility of cold press juicers means they can be used to make juices, nut milks, sorbets, nut butters, baby food, and more. The variety of attachments and accessories included with some models further expands their functionality.

Conclusion

Slow juicers and cold press juicers refer to the same type of juicing technology – masticating juicers that operate at slow speeds to preserve nutrients. The main difference comes down to branding terminology. So when deciding between a “slow juicer” and “cold press juicer”, rest assured they function the same way. Just look for key features like a single auger, low RPM, and high juice yields. Either a slow or cold press juicer will produce nourishing juices full of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes from your favorite fruits and veggies.