One of the most popular breakfast drinks enjoyed in America is orange juice. It’s estimated that in 2020, an estimated 530,000+ metric tons of orange juice was enjoyed by Americans. While this is a slight popularity drop as compared to the previous ten years, it still keeps orange juice at the top of the breakfast beverage list. That’s probably why it has also received its own holiday. This holiday is called National Orange Juice Day and is celebrated on May 4th every year. 

The History Of National Orange Juice Day

Although we did extensive research trying to uncover the origins of this holiday, we couldn’t find out when it was invented or who invented it. We suspect it was probably started by the Florida Citrus Commission or some other board that is committed to the growth of the citrus industry. 

Healthy Facts About Orange Juice & Oranges

Even though the popularity of orange juice as a healthy beverage has fallen somewhat over the past few years due to concerns over its high sugar content, it still remains an excellent source of vitamin C. That’s not the only benefit this beverage delivers to people, however. Below are some other healthy facts about orange juice. 

• Orange juice contains ascorbic acids that help promote cell growth. 
• The high levels of vitamin C in orange juice might help lower the risk of certain cancers.
• Oranges are full of folate and vitamin B9—two ingredients that assist in red blood cell production.
• Orange juice can be used to exfoliate skin due to its high levels of vitamin C and vitamin E.
• Orange juice contains vitamin A and Carotene, two ingredients that help with eye health.
• Studies suggest that orange juice consumption might lower cholesterol levels in adults. 
• Orange juice has high levels of potassium—an ingredient that may lower blood pressure. 
• Orange juice DOES NOT deliver the same amount of fiber as oranges do.
• Drinking orange juice causes a spike in blood sugars which might be dangerous for some people. 
• Oranges are the largest citrus fruits in the world.
• There are over 600 different varieties of oranges.
• Brazil is the world leader in orange products—making 50% of the world orange juice.
• Brazil also makes 80% of the world’s orange concentrate. 
• More oranges are killed by lightning than are killed by any of the various plant diseases. 

Observing National Orange Juice Day

Observing this holiday is as easy as enjoying a glass of orange juice for breakfast or as complex as making a delicious meal with orange juice as your central ingredient. Orange juice is not only good for drinking as a beverage, but it can also be used for BBQ sauces, for making ice cream toppings, or for use in place of water in boxed cake mixes. While you’re drinking OJ and/or cooking with it, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalOrangeJuiceDay on your social media accounts to encourage everyone else to enjoy it as well.