About Dried Fruits: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to three commonly asked questions about dried fruits:

What are the benefits of eating dry fruits?

People who eat dried fruits often enjoy many benefits. Four major ones include: First, like ordinary fleshy fruits, dried ones have a high nutritional value. Because of their low water content, dehydrated fruits are a rich source of natural sugars. For those who want to enjoy a palatable snack, while satisfying their sweet tooth at the same time, substituting fresh with dried fruits is a promising option. If dried well, fruits are a good source of vitamins such as potassium and vitamin C, which help to boost the immune system. Their vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and vitamin E concentrations are also vital for maintaining normal body functions such as regeneration of body cells, RNA, and DNA production. Finally, because of their low water content, high fiber, and high iron levels, dry fruits help to regenerate Red blood Cells (RBCs). They also expand the digestive tract and surpress hunger cues, which is essential when trying to lose weight fast and keeping many digestive problems (constipation, etc.) at bay. Finally, compared to fresh fruits, dry ones have a long shelf life. If stored well, they can stay fresh for around six months to a year.

How can one prepare dried fruits?

Even though dried fruits are readily available online, in supermarkets, and in brick and mortar shops, you can easily prepare your own if you have the requisite equipment and time. Buy your fruits and follow these simple tips, for best result: One of the easiest ways to dehydrate fruits is to bake them directly under the sun. Slice your fruit(s) into small pieces and place them under the sun. Let the slices dry to your desired level. Though effective, drying fruits under the sun distorts their flavor. The sun also degrades essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, lowering the nutritional value of your end product. For the best results, cut your fruit into small slices and dry them on a pan in an oven under low heat (around 120 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit), until they are chewy. You can also buy a good quality commercial dehydrator offline or on the Internet and use it to prepare your fruity treats.

What should one consider when buying dried fruits?

If you consider drying fruits at home an arduous task and you have decided to buy a package from a store in your locality, look out for the following attributes to increase your chances of getting the best. First, check if the fruits used in your preferred package are of high quality. As the saying goes, quality yields quality and vice versa. Second, check the method used to prepare your package of dried fruits. As highlighted earlier, avoid buying fruits dried directly under the sun for long. Most of the time, their nutritional value is low. You should also avoid buying fruits dehydrated using harsh chemicals and additives such as sulphates. They are not tasty, have a low nutritional content, and most importantly, might be harmful to your health. Research well (both offline and online), compare products that are available in the market, and then buy a brand loved my many for its excellent taste, safety, and quality.