With the autumn months comes pumpkin spice. But, if coffee isn't your thing, you might be more inclined to grab some apple cider. While browsing the aisles of the local grocery store, shoppers may wonder … What's the difference between apple cider and apple juice?

 The most obvious answer is the color. Apple juice is lighter in color and cider is darker.

But that is just the beginning. While both are made from pressed apples, apple juice is filtered and often preservatives such as sugar are added. This makes apple juice sweeter, but it also gives it a longer shelf life. Once opened, a bottle of apple juice can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator. Unopened, it can last three to six months in the pantry.

Apple cider is unfiltered and unpasteurized, which means it doesn't last as long in the fridge. After seven to ten days, cider will begin to ferment and become either apple cider vinegar or alcoholic cider. Unlike juice, apple cider should be refrigerated at all times. Cider may also have sediment in the bottom, which can be solved by shaking it.

While both beverages contain anti-oxidants, apple cider can have twice as as many of them as juice. In the end, the may difference may be the taste and a matter of personal preference.

[Photo: apple juice (left), apple cider (right)]