Is Just Pomegranate Juice Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When investigating gluten-free claims, we look for the usual suspects: hidden starches, flavorings, or thickeners. Fortunately, the ingredient profile for Just Pomegranate Juice is remarkably transparent and simple. It contains only two ingredients: filtered water and pomegranate juice concentrate.

The filtered water serves as a reconstituting agent to turn the concentrate back into a drinkable juice. This water is processed and poses zero gluten risk. The pomegranate juice concentrate is simply the fruit essence with the water removed; it is a fruit-derived ingredient that is inherently gluten-free. There are no added preservatives, artificial colors, or 'natural flavors'—common hiding spots for gluten-based fillers in other brands.

Because the manufacturing process involves only fruit and water, the risk of cross-contamination in the facility is significantly lower than in facilities that process grain-based products. Therefore, from a food science perspective, this product is safe for a strict gluten-free diet.

Nutritional Value

While the product is safe regarding gluten, it is important to view the nutritional label objectively. Just Pomegranate Juice is a source of natural sugars. Because it is made from concentrate, the sugar content is concentrated compared to eating the whole fruit. A typical serving contains a significant amount of natural sugar, which provides energy but should be consumed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their glycemic index.

In terms of macronutrients, this juice is virtually fat-free and contains zero protein. It is not a meal replacement but rather a beverage for hydration and flavor. For those on a weight management plan, the calorie count is moderate, but the lack of fiber (which is lost during the juicing process) means the sugar hits the bloodstream faster than it would from whole fruit. It fits well into a balanced diet if you account for the carbohydrate load elsewhere in your meals.