A slow juicer allows you to start your day with fresh juice. You are probably already familiar with a normal juicer, also known as a juicer. But a slow juicer is slightly different. This is the ultimate guide for people about to buy a slow juicer for the first time. Everything you need to know about slow juicers is covered: how they work, the benefits, the differences and much more.
What is a slow juicer?
With a slow juicer, you make fresh juice from (leafy) vegetables, fruit and other desired ingredients. It does the same thing as a juicer (also called a juicer), but the way it works is slightly different. Whereas a juicer ‘smashes’ the fruit or vegetables at high speeds, the slow juicer does so in a tender way. Hence the name ‘slow’ juicer.
The idea behind a slow juicer is the fewer rotations per minute (RPM), the more juice you end up with. Making juice with a slow juicer takes a bit more time, but you get more juice in return.
Types of slow juicers
There are two types of slow juicers: horizontal and vertical slow juicers. The technology is the same, but the difference is in the construction.
- Horizontal slow juicer: due to its horizontal construction, this slow juicer is less likely to get stuck with pulp. It is therefore better suited for leafy vegetables.
- Vertical slow juicer: this is the most common slow juicer. Its vertical design means it takes up less space on the countertop.
How does a slow juicer work?
A slow juicer works with a mortar that spins around, squeezing all the juice out of your fruit and vegetables. A simple technique, but how does a slow juicer work for you as a user?
- Cut the ingredients into pieces
- Press the start button
- Add the ingredients via the filler opening
What can go into a slow juicer?
Basically, most ingredients are suitable for a slow juicer. Vegetables, fruits and leafy vegetables are often used for juicing. But you can also use a slow juicer for low-moisture ingredients. Think wheatgrass or nuts.
Popular ingredients for a slow juicer:
- carrot
- pear and apple
- pineapple
- cucumber
- beetroot
- citrus fruit (do peel off the skin first)
- watermelon
- spinach
- Kale
Extra functions of a slow juicer
Basically, slow juicers only have one function and that is juicing. But what are the differences between various brands of slow juicers? The difference lies in the performance (amount of juice extracted) and the build quality (how long the slow juicer lasts).
Why a slow juicer?
The big advantage of a slow juicer in general is that you can quickly and easily make fresh juice, which is healthy and delicious. But what exactly are the advantages of a slow juicer over a juicer?
Slowjuicer
- Suitable for all ingredients with high or low moisture content.
- Healthier: slow juicing preserves nutrients. More fibre also comes along.*
- Quiet: a slow juicer makes little noise
- Easier to repair
Juice extractor
- Mainly suitable for soft ingredients with high moisture content.
- Less chopping due to a larger filling opening
- Much cheaper to buy
*despite manufacturers claiming otherwise; it is not scientifically proven that a slow juicer is healthier than a juicer.
The disadvantages
Slowjuicer
- Expensive to buy
- More cutting work: ingredients have to be cut smaller due to the narrower filling opening
- Takes more time
Juice extractor
- Makes a lot of noise
- Less chopping due to larger filling opening
- Heat can be released, which is not good for nutrients.
What does a slow juicer cost?
You can buy a good slow juicer for your home for as little as 60 euros. So the price difference with a juicer is not that big. Do you make several juices a day? Then it is better to buy a more expensive slow juicer with a better build quality. From 200 euros upwards, you have an excellent slow juicer that will last you for years. A professional slow juicer for the catering industry starts from 300 euros.
Slow juicer brands
There are now many suppliers of slow juicers. Below, we list the most popular brands:
- Philips: a wide range with both cheaper and more expensive slow juicers.
- Princess, MOA, Sieham and Taylor Swoden: these are mainly budget brands.
- Omega: for horizontal slow juicers
- Kuvings: an excellent choice for a powerful slow juicer that will last you for years (also suitable for the catering industry).
The best slow juicer
The best slow juicer from our slow juicer test is the Kuvings Big Mouth C9500. This is a powerful juicer suitable for an avid juice drinker, but also for the catering industry. We were impressed by the build quality of this slow juicer. You can also easily order parts should they break.
The best buy slow juicer
The Sieham Slow Juicer came out of our slow juicer test as the best buy. A fine slow juicer at an affordable price. The parts feel slightly less sturdy compared to the Kuvings. This juicer is less suitable for the catering industry, but fine for at home.
Frequently asked questions
A slow juicer is perfect if you like to drink fresh juice every day. Juice is easy to make. Keep in mind, though, that you spend quite some time cleaning the device. This may stop you from juicing.
Manufacturers claim that a slow juicer is a lot healthier, although this has not been scientifically proven. However, juice from a slow juicer does contain more fibre compared to juice from a juicer.
You might think that a slow juicer takes a long time to make juice, but that is not so bad. Within a minute, a healthy juice is ready for you. This is slightly longer than a juicer takes.
You buy a slow juicer mainly for making fresh juice. A horizontal slow juicer also makes dough, nut paste, baby food, ice cream and smoothies.