12 Foods You Should Never Put in a Juicer (But People Try Anyway)

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Juicers are great to have in the kitchen, especially if you like making fresh juices at home. Once you start using one regularly, it’s easy to assume you can throw just about anything in and it will work.

But that’s not really the case. Some foods don’t produce juice at all, some can clog or damage the machine, and others just don’t give you a result that’s worth it. Knowing what to avoid will help your juicer last longer and save you from a lot of frustration.

Here are some things you should never put in a juicer, even though people often try.

Avocado

Avocados are soft, but they don’t contain enough juice to process properly. Instead of juice, you’ll end up with a thick paste that can clog your machine.

Cruciferous and High-Fiber Vegetables

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, celery, and even large amounts of kale or spinach can be tough on a juicer. They’re very fibrous, don’t release much liquid, and can create stringy pulp that clogs the machine. Some of these can also be harder on digestion when juiced, especially in large amounts.

Coconut Flesh

While coconut water works well, the white flesh is too dry and fibrous to juice. It can create a thick pulp that jams the machine instead of producing liquid.

Citrus Rinds

It might be tempting to toss in the whole fruit, but citrus peels are too bitter and can upset your stomach. They can also noticeably affect the taste of your juice.

Related: Don’t Ever Throw Away Your Lemon Peels — Here’s How to Put Every Last Bit to Use

Bananas

Bananas are great in smoothies, but not in a juicer. They’re too soft and starchy, so instead of juice, you’ll get a heavy, unworkable mixture.

Pineapple

Pineapple contains juice, but removing the fiber leaves you with a very sugary drink. It’s often better to eat it whole or blend it instead.

Figs

Figs are naturally soft, but they don’t release much liquid when juiced. They tend to turn into a thick pulp that doesn’t pass through the machine well.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is very fibrous and doesn’t break down easily in a juicer. It can clog the machine and yield little juice.

Frozen Fruit

Putting frozen fruit straight into a juicer can strain or damage the motor. Letting it thaw slightly first makes it much easier to process.

Ice

Juicers aren’t designed to handle hard items like ice. It can dull the blades or even break parts of the machine.

Related: 15 Genius Ice and Snow Removal Tricks for Driveways, Sidewalks, and Cars

Whole Spices

Whole spices are too hard for most juicers and won’t break down properly. They can also wear down the internal parts over time.

Nuts

Nuts don’t contain juice and will turn into a paste instead. If you’re trying to make nut-based drinks, blending is a better option.

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