Why is centrifugal juicer better?
Juicing has become an increasingly popular way to get more nutrients into your diet. With so many juicers on the market, it can be tough to decide which type is right for you. Centrifugal juicers are one of the most common types available, and for good reason. Keep reading to learn why a centrifugal model may be your best bet.
How Centrifugal Juicers Work
Centrifugal juicers work by using a high-speed spinning metal blade to separate juice from produce. Fruits and vegetables are fed through a chute into the juicing chamber, where the fast-moving blade shreds them. The centrifugal force generated pushes the juice through a strainer while the pulp remains behind. The juice flows out one spout, while the pulp is ejected through another opening.
Benefits of Centrifugal Juicers
Centrifugal juicers offer several advantages that explain their popularity:
Speed
One of the biggest benefits of centrifugal juicers is their fast juicing speed. The powerful motors can quickly rip through firm fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and beets. You’ll have a full glass of nutrient-dense juice in seconds. This makes centrifugal models a good choice if you’re often pressed for time in the morning.
Convenience
Centrifugal juicers are designed for simplicity. Most have only an on/off switch and require no extra assembly besides locking the juicing chamber in place. The juicing process is quick and easy, with minimal prep work required. The removable parts are dishwasher safe for fast cleanup after juicing. This makes centrifugal juicers some of the most convenient and user-friendly models.
Affordability
With fewer parts than other juicers, centrifugal models also tend to be more affordable. Their simple operation keeps manufacturing costs down. Many reliable options are available for under $100, making them budget-friendly for most buyers. Despite the lower prices, these juicers still deliver fast juicing and efficient juice extraction.
Compact size
Centrifugal juicers are typically more compact and take up less counter space than other types. Their small footprint makes them a good choice for kitchens with limited space. The vertical design also means they can fit easily under cabinets when not in use.
Potential Drawbacks
While centrifugal juicers have many advantages, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
Juice oxidation
The fast spinning of the blade aerates the juice, introducing oxygen. This can cause the juice to oxidize and lose nutrients more quickly. You’ll get the most nutritional benefit by drinking the juice soon after making it, ideally within 24 hours.
Pulp in juice
The high-speed shredding can result in some pulp making its way into the juice. Centrifugal models may not fully separate the juice and pulp. You can minimize this by juicing mostly coarser produce like apples and carrots rather than softer berries or tomatoes. Straining the juice after pouring can further remove any stray pulp.
Not ideal for leafy greens
Centrifugal juicers are best suited for juicing firm, crunchy produce. They tend to struggle when it comes to extracting juice from softer leafy greens like kale, spinach, and wheatgrass. These leaves can get stuck in the strainer basket. Consider a different model if leafy greens will be your main juicing ingredient.
Noise
With their powerful, high-speed motors, centrifugal juicers can be fairly noisy when running. If you’re an early morning juicer, this could be disruptive to others still sleeping. Closing doors and windows can help dampen the sound.
Top Centrifugal Juicers
If you decide a centrifugal juicer is right for you, here are some top-rated models to consider:
| Juicer | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain Plus | 850-watt dual speed motor, extra-wide 3-inch feed chute, stainless steel cutting disc |
| Mueller Austria Juicer Ultra | 1100 watts, 3 inch feed chute, dust cover and cleaning brush included |
| Aicook Wide Mouth Juicer | 800 watts, 3 inch feed chute, reverse function, budget price under $50 |
| Hamilton Beach Juicer Machine | 800 watts, 3 inch feed chute, dishwasher-safe parts, under $50 |
Choosing the Right Centrifugal Juicer
When selecting a centrifugal juicer, here are a few key factors to consider:
Feed Chute Size – Look for at least a 3-inch wide chute which allows fitting whole fruits and vegetables to reduce prep work. Models with small feed tubes require more chopping beforehand.
Juice Jug Capacity – If juicing for the whole family, find a model with a large juice collector to avoid having to empty it frequently. Around 800ml-1000ml capacity is ideal.
Speed Settings – Variable speeds provide more control over juicing. Low speeds work better for soft fruits, high for hard produce. Dual speed models are most versatile.
Ease of Cleaning – Check that all parts are dishwasher safe. Removable components allow accessing and rinsing the blade basket. Included brushes are useful for scrubbing.
Noise Level – If minimal noise is important to you, compare decibel ratings and reviews mentioning noise levels. More expensive models tend to be quieter.
Warranty – A longer warranty provides peace of mind and indicates a more durable machine. Look for at least 1-2 years of coverage.
Conclusion
Centrifugal juicers can be an excellent choice for many buyers due to their speed, convenience, affordability, and compact size. They make quick work of firm fruits and vegetables. Keep possible downsides in mind, like juice oxidation and ability to handle leafy greens. But for simple daily juicing of common produce, a quality centrifugal model can fit the bill. Choosing one with the right features and capacity for your needs will allow you to enjoy the many benefits of home juicing. Drink up!