Unpasteurized, cider may contain some naturally occurring bacteria that could be harmful to the elderly and very young. This bacteria must be killed by a pasteurization process prior to drinking the cider.  To pasteurize, Kercher's Sunrise Orchards uses a consistent process which heats cider to 160 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 seconds and immediately cools it back down to 50 degrees.  The USDA and FDA have determined that this process insures a safe product for all to enjoy. 

We believe pasteurization only improves the flavor of our cider!!  Take an apple pie for example...when a pie is baked at 375 degrees for one hour, the flavor of the apples are enhanced by the baking process.  The same can also be said for cider and pasteurization!!