Sweet Sip of Summer: Why Sugarcane Juice Is Still the Nation’s Favourite Thirst Quencher

In the sweltering heat of Indian summers, few drinks are as universally loved—or as deeply refreshing—as a glass of freshly pressed sugarcane juice. Whether sold from roadside stalls or enjoyed at urban juice bars, sugarcane juice has stood the test of time, not just as a traditional favorite but also as a natural alternative to aerated soft drinks.

Made by crushing peeled sugarcane sticks and often served with a dash of lemon, mint, or ginger, this naturally sweet beverage offers more than just relief from the heat. It’s loaded with antioxidants, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium—nutrients that help boost immunity, improve digestion, and combat dehydration.

“I’ve been drinking sugarcane juice every summer since I was a kid,” says Amit Rao, a college professor in Delhi. “It’s nostalgic, affordable, and gives you a real energy boost without any added chemicals.”

Vendors across cities and towns still rely on age-old mechanical juicers, often manually powered, to press out every last drop of the green-gold liquid. Served in steel glasses or eco-friendly paper cups, sugarcane juice costs a fraction of energy drinks yet delivers natural sugars that provide an instant pick-me-up.

In recent years, the humble sugarcane juice has also made its way into high-end cafes and organic health stores, where it’s bottled cold-pressed and sometimes infused with exotic flavours like basil, turmeric, or black salt. While purists still swear by the roadside experience—juice made to order, served chilled over clinking cubes of ice—the drink’s evolution speaks to its lasting appeal.

Nutritionist Priya Menon explains, “Sugarcane juice is not just a detoxifier; it also helps maintain liver health and can be a great option for those recovering from illnesses or fatigue.”

Despite occasional concerns over hygiene at some roadside stalls, the love for sugarcane juice has remained unshaken. Vendors are increasingly adopting more sanitary practices, including using filtered water for cleaning and serving juice with disposable covers or lids.

As temperatures soar, sugarcane juice remains a symbol of refreshment, resilience, and a timeless connection to India’s agricultural roots. Sweet, earthy, and full of goodness—it’s not just a drink, it’s a tradition in a glass.