What are the best dried fruits? Types and names of dried fruits

A Christmas goose surrounded by appetizing prunes, a pleasant compote with dried apricots are familiar to us from childhood. Assistants of culinary magic are dried fruits, the names of which make up a huge list of delicacies known to residents of various places on the planet.

The requirement to preserve the harvest has long since become a tradition of turning fresh fruits into dried fruits. Fruits and berries available in a particular area were dried, dried, turning into a healing, tasty delicacy. Dried fruits were taken by sailors on long journeys, using them as an invaluable vitamin pantry, delicious food. The development of the industrial capabilities of society has proposed new technologies for obtaining dried fruits, preserving in them all the useful qualities of fresh gifts of nature.

Types of dried fruits

Now there are no problems in purchasing dried fruits. Dried apricots, prunes, melon, mango, raisins, apples, pears. Raspberries, blueberries, mulberries, currants, wild roses, and many other types of products adorn markets and store shelves. They come with a bone, without it. In the form of whole fruits, cut into pieces, slices, lumps. Fruits sprinkled with powdered sugar, scalded, doused with glaze, buttered fruits. They are dried in the sun, in the shade, they make fruit chips. Industrial technologies apply chemical pre-treatment processes that protect dried fruits from mold and pests. They keep longer, but they must be washed well before use. Among the drying methods, dried fruits are distinguished, dried in the sun (oftobi), in the shade (soyags), and in vineyards. These are ancient devices for processing fresh fruits on charcoal for a week. Used in private households. Dried fruits, dried in the shade, soft, tasty, suitable for consumption without pre-training. After exposure to the sun, the fruits are firm. Of these, it is best to cook compotes. Modern production facilities are equipped with special drying chambers adapted for the mass production of dried fruits, such as dried apricots, prunes, figs, and other types.

Numerous dried fruits are usually divided into two groups. One of them includes dried fruits. The other group includes various dried berries. Among the list of the first group of dried fruits, the following types are known:

1. Dried apricots. This type of dried fruit is obtained from pitted apricot halves by natural drying in the sun. Large dried pitted apricots are called kaisa. After drying, dried apricots should retain their natural shade. Too much bright color talks about the use of chemical treatment. The main suppliers of dried apricots are China, California, Asian countries, the Caucasus region. Various varieties of dried apricots are on sale, differing in cost. This is a table grade, first, highest, extra. Fresh apricots of different quality are used for their production. Dried apricots, kaisa contain a large number of calcium, magnesium, mineral salts. Sugars, carotene, iodine, other vitamins, fiber, minerals. Harmonious chemical composition Dried apricots allows, with regular use, to improve the composition of the blood, to normalize the processes in the intestines. Strengthen vision, weaken the blockage of blood vessels, create a general strengthening effect on the whole body.
   
2. Prunes. Increasingly, we use recipes for cooking meat dishes, drinks, salads, pilaf containing prunes. Slightly lustrous black, the soft dried fruit made from black plum fruit has long been a culinary success. To get it, choose juicy, large, ripe fruits. They are blanched, cooled in running water, dried in steam dryers. The quality of prunes is confirmed by the absence of a brown tint that appears when the drying process is disturbed. Prunes should not even have a slight bitterness. Properly dried black plum fruit is considered a real gift for human health. It helps to normalize work digestive system, cope with heart disease, atherosclerosis, rheumatism, kidney and liver diseases. The high content of vitamin A has a beneficial effect on strengthening vision. The antioxidants contained in the dried fruit absorb free radicals and serve as a preventive barrier against the development of malignant tumors.
   
3. Dried apricots. The inhabitants of the East call dried fruit the fruit of beauty, the gift of Allah. Otherwise it is called Sheptala, kandak. Apricot differs in many of its properties, for example, from dried apricots. The apricot remains on the tree until the amount of moisture contained in it becomes minimal. A natural concentrate is formed, a clot useful substances. If you drink an infusion of wild apricots daily in the morning, you can live more than a hundred years without illness. This is what the Tajiks think. The beauty fruit rejuvenates the skin and hair. Sweet varieties of apricots are used to treat diseases of the nervous system. Sour relieve a person from migraine attacks, serve preventive measure against colds. By the amount of potassium, apricots are considered the champion among other dried fruits.
   
4. Dates, melon. The fruits of the date palm, valued by the population of the planet since the time of construction Egyptian pyramids, are in constant demand of people. An interesting fact is the chemical composition of the date, which differs from modern species fruits found in Israel. Its age is about 5000 years. Unfortunately, this type of palm has not been found on the planet. The “second bread” was considered dates by the inhabitants of the East. The composition, useful qualities of an exotic fruit allow for a long time to be the main type of nutrition for humans. The energy volume of 100 g of dates is about 350 Kcal. sweet, delicious fruits not stored for a long time fresh. You can get a sea of ​​​​vitamins, minerals, numerous useful components of dates through the regular use of dried fruits. Melon is sold in the form of original braids, cubes. Among them, cantaloupe or dried Thai melon is considered popular.
   
5. Kumquat. An orange-like fruit belonging to the citrus plant family. Their taste contains a slight sourness, similar to tangerine. The sweet skin of the kumquat is edible. Industrial plantations of dried kumquat are located in China, Asia, Japan, Corfu, America. Six plant species and several hybrid forms are known, for example, commandarin, limequat, calamondin, demonquat. Candied fruits, marmalade, liqueurs are prepared from healthy fruit.
   
6. Figs. The fruits of the oldest tree on the planet, called the fig, fig tree, fig tree. feast on fresh fruits won't work for a long time. They do not tolerate transportation well, they quickly begin to ferment, losing their taste and useful properties. But in dried form, figs have been known for a long time, used in recipes traditional medicine in the treatment of cough, anemia, as a laxative, etc. The healing abilities of figs are recognized by official medicine.
   
7. Pears, apples. One of the common types of dried fruits used by peoples of different climatic zones. Used in home cooking in winter.
8. Raisin. dried grapes is considered the main representative of the second group of dried fruits obtained from berries. By useful qualities it ranks first among all types of dried fruits. Raisins retain 100% of the properties of grapes. The markets offer various varieties of raisins. For example, dark pitted raisins (cinnamon, shigani, bidana). Light seedless raisins (kishmish, sabza). Varieties of raisins differ in drying methods, the variety of grapes used. Kishmish white color obtained by drying in the sun without pre-treatment. Tailed raisins are dried along with the stalk. This allows you to save the appearance of the berries. Each variety of raisins has numerous health benefits. Regular, competent use of it in nutrition brings great benefits to the human body.

Dried rose hips, hawthorn, blueberries, raspberries, sea buckthorn, currants, despite the price, are worthy for constant use. Very many of most valuable gifts nature can be dried qualitatively at home.

Now on the shelves with exotic dried fruits, dried watermelons, lychee, kiwi, lime, pomelo, yuba or Chinese date, and many other healthy delicacies attract attention.

Benefits, medicinal properties of dried fruits

Dried fruits, berries at any time of the year serve as a health-improving "pill" for the whole body. High concentrations useful elements provide all its systems necessary materials. Nutritional qualities, unique chemical composition, the possibility of long-term storage have made dried fruits the glory of a popular food product. At the right time, they come to the rescue in diseases, for preventive purposes to the heart, blood vessels, nervous system, and intestines. They are convenient to take on the road. Together with a small amount of nuts, dried fruits will replace lunch and dinner. Even small children, starting from the age of 1.5 years, are introduced into the diet certain types dried fruits. In winter, they are able to compensate for the lack of vegetables and vitamins. The main thing is to know the characteristics of the body, for example, the tendency to allergic reactions, the presence specific diseases, choose the right dried fruits.

How to choose, store dried fruits

Industrial technologies for drying fruits and berries use various ways their processing. Long-term storage of the product cannot be ensured without the use of sulfur dioxide, caustic soda, and numerous types of preservatives. These compounds are toxic to the body. To reduce them harmful effect you need to carefully examine the dried fruits. The fruits must have a whole, undamaged shape. They should not have mold, rot, stains. Brilliant, fat look dried fruit confirms the use of fat, glycerin to improve appearance. A bright color that does not correspond to the natural shade indicates an undesirable chemical treatment. It is not recommended to buy such dried fruits.

It is advised to store dried fruits in glass jar, away from straight lines sun rays, heating equipment.

All types of dried fruits are useful for people of any age. Following them, it is useful to remember the tips for choosing, using each specific type of dried fruit. Delicious, healthy treats should become a regular guest of every home.

Dried fruits are a real storehouse of vitamins and minerals. They strengthen our immune system, protect against vitamin deficiencies, replace harmful sweets and sugar for those who lead a healthy lifestyle. Dried fruits fit perfectly into our daily diet, inspiring us to try new recipes for salads and desserts. And they just cheer up with their natural sweetness. Almost all dried fruits are good for our health, but there are undisputed leaders among them. Top 10 healthy dried fruits ─ in the MedAboutMe review.

Content Leader dietary fiber(100 g of this product contains 63% of fiber from daily allowance). It is very beneficial for women's health, as it contains a huge amount of compounds and minerals that have a beneficial effect on female body. For example, folic acid, indispensable during pregnancy.

Figs are rich in potassium - its merit in reducing high pressure. Dietary fiber, which is found in excess in figs, improves intestinal motility.

If dried figs have a salty-sour taste, then its shelf life has expired, and such a product should not be eaten. Quality dried figs should not be dry and rough to the touch. Choose fruits that are beige or light brown, matte, and relatively soft to the touch.

Most useful for the gastrointestinal tract.

Dried apricots

Dried apricots are one of the most favorite dried fruits among those who love sweets. Adherents healthy lifestyle lives replace it with sweets and other sweets, which is very good for health.

Dried apricots are rich in vitamin A (60% of the daily dose in 100 g of product), so its use will have a beneficial effect on the condition of hair and skin, as well as vitamin C, potassium, iron and fiber.

When choosing dried apricots, give preference to frosted dried fruits. Bright, shiny, beautiful dried apricots should alert you - probably, the fruits were processed with chemicals during drying. Before use, it is advisable to clean the dried apricots well - soak it in warm water for 15 minutes, then rinse under running water.

Most useful for the cardiovascular system, skin.

Prunes thanks to their dietary properties- one of best products for those who care about their weight. Dried plum fruits are rich in fiber and pectins, which has a positive effect on bowel function. This is a real storehouse of vitamins and minerals: prunes contain vitamin C, A, B vitamins, iron, potassium, magnesium. Also, prunes are one of the leaders in the content of organic acids (175% of daily dose per 100 g of product).

Prunes are not only useful, but also versatile in use. In addition to using it in pure form, you can add it to pilaf and meat dishes (dried fruit gives them a piquant taste), cook desserts, salads, and various vitamin drinks with it.

Most useful for the pancreas, intestines.

Raisin

Raisins are everywhere: pancakes, pastries, cottage cheese casseroles or fresh cottage cheese, cereals, salads, meat dishes. Most of all, dried grapes contain vitamin B1 (thiamine), which is necessary for normal operation nervous system. Due to their low sodium content, raisins are more suitable than other dried fruits for high blood pressure. It is good for dental health, helps to improve vision, and due to the content of iron (20% of the daily requirement in 100 g of product) it is useful for anemia.

Dried grapes are rich in fructose and glucose, so it is recommended to add it to the diet of people who perform heavy physical work. Raisins are one of the most affordable sources of vitamins and minerals. Just one handful of raisins added to oatmeal for breakfast, bring invaluable benefit to your body.

Most useful for the nervous system, with anemia.

Dried apples are an affordable and worthy source of iron (43% of the daily requirement per 100 g of product), which is necessary for oxygen transport. For the same reason, they are useful in anemia and other diseases associated with low level hemoglobin.

Dried apples are a storehouse of dietary fiber. While fresh fruit contains 15% daily allowance fiber, in dry - 48% per 100 g of product. With moderate use of dried apples, cholesterol levels decrease, and the digestive system improves. On the other hand, dehydrated apples are devoid of vitamin C, so you should not completely replace them. fresh fruits so as not to deprive your body of this valuable compound.

Dried apples are good to eat with the skin, which is very rich in antioxidants. Therefore, if you dry apples yourself, do not peel them.

Most useful for anemia, for the digestive system.

dried pear

Dried pears are less popular than apples, raisins and prunes, but they take their rightful place in the list of the most useful dried fruits. It is rich in organic acids (75% DV), dietary fiber, glucose and fructose, and vitamin C (13% DV).

Among dried fruits, the pear is the leader in the high content of antioxidants that protect the heart. Dried pear contains arbutin, a natural antibiotic. Dried fruit is useful for problems with the pancreas, improves digestion, strengthens the walls of blood vessels.

Dried pear satisfies hunger well, so you can snack on this dried fruit between main meals.

Most beneficial for the heart.

Dried cherries are valued for their high content of pectins, which normalize intestinal motility. It is useful for circulatory system, normalizing blood clotting, being a good prevention of blood clots.

Dried cherries are the undisputed leader among dried fruits in the content of beta-carotenes, known as powerful antioxidants.

It is impossible not to say that the dried fruit is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. So, a handful of berries contains the daily norm of magnesium and cobalt.

Most useful for the circulatory system.

dried mango

high quality, ripe tropical fruits Mangoes are rarely found on supermarket shelves, so we advise you to pay attention to dried mangoes, which fully preserve all the beneficial properties of fresh fruit.

With the regular use of this dried fruit, the work of the digestive system and intestines improves - and all thanks to the presence of a large amount of dietary fiber in the product. The benefits of dried mango for the cardiovascular system and nervous system are undeniable. This dried fruit is a natural cocktail of vitamins (A, C and E) and antioxidants. By introducing it into your diet, you will strengthen your immunity and improve the condition of your skin and hair.

Use fragrant pieces of dried fruit as natural substitute Sahara. Add them to cereals, various desserts, curd masses, and the dish will become not only tastier, but also healthy.

Most useful for the digestive and cardiovascular systems.

Dates are a healthy alternative to sweets and candies. A glass of dried dates provides almost half of the body's daily fiber requirement (47% of the daily requirement).

Dates are a complex of vitamins and minerals that strengthen immune system. Yes, one cup. dried fruits provides 12% of the daily value of vitamin B6, 7% folic acid, 19% manganese, 15% magnesium, 5% calcium. dried dates- leaders among dried fruits in terms of polyphenol content.

Dates contain an excess of fructose, so this dried fruit should be excluded from the diet when food intolerance fructose.

Most useful for the heart and immune system.

dried melon

Melon - fragrant, juicy and sweet fruit. It's valuable dietary product, which is easily absorbed by our body and, thanks to its high fiber content, improves digestion and bowel function. Dried melon retains all the beneficial properties of fresh fruit.

Between main meals.

Dried fruits are the healthiest alternative to sweets. So, you can replace regular sweets with more healthy dried fruit sweets. The fastest and easiest option is to grind nuts and dried fruits in a blender with a little water and a pinch of salt, form into balls and, if desired, roll in coconut or sesame seeds. You will get delicious, sweet and healthy candies!

Dried fruits are a tasty and healthy product, although they raise some questions for those who follow the figure. Indeed, a higher concentration of sugar in comparison with fresh fruits, on the one hand, and a lot of useful substances, and, accordingly, properties, on the other, make you think. We will consider these subtleties.

Types of dried fruits

There are many types of dried fruits, as well as their fresh counterparts. They can be with and without stones, whole and in the form of halves or small pieces, dried in the shade and under open rays, or even boiled in sugar syrup (candied fruits).

The list of their names is quite long (by the way, berries are also included in it): raisins, pear, apple, rosehip, barberry, cranberry, prunes, apricots, dried apricots, cherries, dates, peach, banana, figs, papaya, unabi and many others. Let us dwell on those that are especially useful in weight loss. And the vitamins in dried fruits are the most diverse, if they are not chemically processed.

What dried fruits are good for weight loss

There is an opinion that it is impossible to eat fruits during a diet, and dried fruits are generally unacceptable to use, because the first of them are sweet, and the second are very sweet. If you adhere to any specific strict diet(protein, for example), then of course, there can be no fruits in it, by definition. Otherwise, you should think carefully about this issue.

What dried fruits are useful? Dried fruits are good for diet food at least because they are a concentrated receptacle of a variety of useful substances that we need so much for normal well-being. They also help to drown out the feeling of hunger, and their sweetness, perhaps, the only way out do without chocolates and sweets (having relieved bouts of irritability).

There is certain types dried fruits, which should be preferred when on a diet. First of all - with a low glycemic index (GI), because this means that the product is broken down slowly, gradually, digested for a long time and does not cause a sharp release of insulin.

Why is it important? Because at large doses sugar entering the body, part of it is bound to turn into fat. At the same time, thanks to insulin, the body is only able to build adipose tissue but not split it.

That is why if 2 people eat the same number calories, but the products will be different, with a strikingly different GI, they will lose weight (or gain weight) with different results.

Useful properties of dried fruits

The presence of a whole set of micro and macro elements, fiber and vitamins make dried fruits an ideal food, especially in the winter season. Also, this product boasts a balanced amount of organic acids and fiber, which, by the way, plays a huge role in cleansing the body of harmful substances, stimulates peristalsis and normalizes the intestinal microflora.

Each type of these sweets has its own unique set of "usefulness", and therefore is often purposefully used to treat or prevent not only beriberi, but also certain diseases.

The benefits of dried apricots for weight loss

Dried apricots are a nutritious product that drowns out the feeling of hunger and gives energy. In addition, it should be added to the diet if the heart and thyroid gland fail, vision is impaired. It contains a huge amount of minerals that work for the benefit of the whole organism.

The benefits of prunes for the body

Prunes have a positive effect on digestion and bowel function, regulate cholesterol levels and give a feeling of satiety, and are an antidepressant. It should be used if the digestive tract requires attention, because it is - well-known remedy for cleansing the intestines, and prunes also have antioxidant properties.

What are the benefits of dates

But the benefits of dates are difficult to limit with some kind of framework. They are recommended to use to strengthen the heart, kidneys, liver; with anemia, hypertension, cough, dystrophy; dates activate the brain, reduce the risk cancer, and are also a general tonic. And this is not a complete list.
However, there is one "but".

Dates have a high GI, which is doubly unfortunate as they are one of the tastiest and sweetest foods. However, do not rush to exclude it from the diet. You can reduce the GI coefficient if you drink dates with milk or kefir.

These foods delay the breakdown of sugar, thereby lowering glycemic index. This applies to all dairy and sour-milk, but give preference to products with a low percentage of fat.

The benefits of raisins for women

Raisin. Normalizes digestion and acidity, is a source of energy (a necessary component of the diet at high physical activity). Moreover, it is useful for thyroid gland due to great content iodine.

The benefits of figs for weight loss

This fruit has an ideal ratio of nutrients, as well as (the only plant) - omega-3 and -6 acids. In addition, it removes fluid from the body, reduces the feeling of hunger, and helps to normalize digestion. And most importantly, figs have a relatively small amount of calories and a low GI.

Whichever of these sweets you choose, remember that portions should be small - up to 10 pieces of fruit per day. By carefully and slowly chewing food, you will “deceive” the feeling of hunger, but replenish the reserves of essential nutrients.

How many calories are in dried fruits

Dried fruit calorie and GI table

How to choose dried fruits

It is no secret that food is often treated with special and not always harmless substances. Therefore, the first thing that should alert you is an excessively bright color.

Usually, this is the result of using sulfur dioxide (E220). This preservative may cause severe allergies in asthmatics, as well as exacerbate gastrointestinal diseases, as it destroys the mucous membrane. But if the product has an inexpressive color and a wrinkled, dusty surface, you can take it.

The second thing that should alert you is an uncharacteristic smell or taste. For example, plum fruits are difficult to dry naturally, as they turn sour rather quickly.

Resourceful producers dry them in special ovens - gas and gasoline - thanks to which dried fruits acquire the appropriate taste, smell and numerous cracks on the peel, where carcinogenic substances settle. Vitamins and enzymes - perish.

It is better to buy dates with seeds, and prunes, raisins - with stalks.
Another alarming moment is the unnatural shine.

Often this applies to prunes that are treated with glycerin or soaked in low-quality oil to give softness and shine. The coffee shade indicates that the fruits were scalded with boiling water, and this significantly reduces the amount of vitamins in them.

Dried fruits for diabetes

People with this disease need to be extremely careful when choosing dried fruits. Dried fruits for diabetes can be eaten in moderation. Exotic overseas fruits will have to be immediately abandoned, as well as bananas, figs and pineapple. Prunes, raisins and dates can be consumed in very limited quantities (no more than 3 prunes, 1 tablespoon of raisins, and 1 date per day).

But unsweetened varieties of apples, currants, and especially pears can be eaten without fear for health, but without fanaticism. The patient must agree with the doctor on the complete list of dried fruits that can and cannot be diabetics.

This applies not only to this disease. A person suffering from several ailments at the same time can harm himself. For example, if in addition to diabetes there is an ulcer, it is better to exclude raisins altogether, and if there are problems with the gastrointestinal tract, dates should also be discarded.

Dried fruits during pregnancy

Of course, in view of huge amount all kinds of "usefulness" pregnant women should eat a variety of dried fruits in reasonable quantities, while paying close attention to their quality. The human body is complex and intelligent system, able to suggest what exactly he is missing.

Therefore, a pregnant woman should listen to her appetite and eat the appropriate fruits.
And yet, doctors especially recommend dates (not in last turn thanks to the substance oxytocin).

They are useful during pregnancy and lactation; facilitate childbirth and contribute to the production of milk in the mother, as they trigger a whole cascade of reactions in the female body.

Dried fruits instead of sweets

What are the advantages of dried fruit over confectionery? Despite the calorie content, a very small portion of dried fruits will be enough to both heal and saturate the body.

In addition, without denying yourself sweets, you get rid of depression, a frequent companion of diets. And unlike all kinds of cakes and chocolates, dried fruits are a natural product.

Dried fruit dishes

Dried fruits can not only be added to oatmeal, although it is both quick and tasty. Based on them, you can cook broths and soups, make pilaf and salads, as well as cook delicious cottage cheese desserts, while not compromising the basic principles of dietary nutrition.

The conclusions are obvious: it is possible and necessary to include dried fruits in the diet, especially for those who are losing weight or controlling weight, as well as women in position. And in case of any diseases, you should first consult with your doctor.

Many of us know that dried fruits are useful product. Firstly, they have a lot of fiber, which stimulates digestion and metabolism. Secondly, they contain more minerals than fresh fruits. They have a lot of potassium (necessary for our heart), iron (which improves blood formation), as well as carotene and B vitamins. All of them are important for the normal functioning of the heart, brain, nervous system and muscles. Dried fruits have a cleansing effect on the intestines (one prunes is worth something). They are great at fighting hyperacidity stomach, enveloping its walls with a protective layer. And vegetable fibers, which are rich in dried fruits, normalize digestion processes, improve intestinal motility and help with constipation.

Properties of some types of dried fruits

Dried fruits have many beneficial properties for our body. Here is some of them:

dried apples contain a large amount of iron, which has a good effect on the composition of the blood; improve the intestinal microflora.

Raisin rich in organic acids, fiber, vitamins A, B1, B2, B5 and B6, C. It contains iron, boron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chlorine, phosphorus. Helps strengthen the nervous system, helps relieve tension, fatigue, improve sleep. Useful for pregnant and lactating women: replenishes iron deficiency and improves lactation. Raisins have a positive effect on the health of the heart muscle, strengthens the nervous system and immunity.

dried pears have a calming effect on the nervous system, improve mood. In addition, they have a tonic property and help remove toxins from the body. Dried pears are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, E, P, C, pectin, iron, iodine, copper, potassium, calcium, zinc, carotene. Useful for disorders of the pancreas, urinary tract. Help fight with colds and reduce stress.

Exotic fruits also have mass useful properties. For example, figs help with inflammation. oral cavity, when coughing, improves the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Peach useful for those who suffer from diseases of the cardiovascular system and kidneys.

Dried apricots is not only beautiful tonic, this dried fruit helps prevent and alleviate anemia, heart and gastrointestinal diseases, and improves eyesight. Constant use dried apricots in food reduces the likelihood of blockage of blood vessels and improves blood circulation; helps the skin stay young for a long time, and hair - strong.

Prunes and raisins increase hemoglobin and are useful in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Dried fruits are a mild laxative, diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Dates rich in vitamins A, E, group B, amino acids. They contain calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, selenium. Dates are useful for people with weakened immune systems, with anemia. They help relieve fatigue and speed up recovery after past illness, strengthen cardiovascular system, activate the work of the liver and kidneys. Dates are believed to help prevent oncological diseases. Useful for pregnant women: used in the prevention of depression and help strengthen the muscles of the uterus.

From dried apples and pears compotes are prepared and used for diseases of the liver and kidneys, for gastritis and other disorders of the digestive system.

But we must remember that during drying, due to the departure of water, the concentration of sugars in fruits increases. Let's say, in fresh apricots, there are 50 kcal per 100 g, and in dried apricots - already 200-250. Plums have about 60 kcal per 100 g, and prunes - 250. Grapes have 70 kcal per 100 g, and raisins - 280. This must be taken into account by those who are on a diet.

In principle, this sugar is not so terrible: due to the abundance of fiber, the glycemic index of dried fruits is low and does not sharply increase blood glucose levels.

And now for the sad...

The real problem is that dried fruits are subjected to extensive chemical processing to give them an attractive taste. marketable condition and extend their shelf life.

Almost all dried fruits that we see on the market or in stores were obtained by industrial drying. After drying, dried fruits lose their natural colors, saturation and brightness are out of the question. Beautiful colour achieved only through chemistry. So, golden figs, bright orange dried apricots and amber color raisins are the work of food coloring and the result of fumigation with sulfur dioxide.

The usual technology for processing dried fruits involves fumigation with sulfur dioxide. This will be labeled on the packaging as additive E220. With it, manufacturers kill bacteria and make the product “tasteless” for insects. This processing gives dried fruits gloss and shine - raisins and apricots become golden, prunes begin to shine. Of course, it is worth mentioning that the concentrations of such hazardous substances are strictly specified, and the recommended doses in theory should not cause harm. But are you willing to risk your own health by believing that the nameless manufacturer was honest?

You should also pay attention to the shine of dried fruits. A real dried fruit has an unpretentious appearance - these are matte, wrinkled slices. To make them shine, manufacturers process dried fruits cheaply. vegetable oils or glycerin.

To speed up drying, dried fruits can be processed with a burner, which gives them a taste of gasoline and contributes to the formation of carcinogens due to poor filtration. Often the fruits are dried in a tunnel oven (dryer). This gives dried fruits the smell of diesel fuel. To soften some fruits, especially those harvested ahead of time and therefore hard, boiling water with caustic non-food soda is sometimes used. This helps to cover the peel with small cracks, which makes drying faster.

It is also common practice to soak exotic fruits in sugar syrups, which gives the product additional sweetness and calorie content.

So, when choosing dried fruits, pay attention to:

• unnaturally bright color
• unnatural shine
• strange aftertaste.

How to protect yourself

Rule 1

Remember, high-quality dried fruits tend to have an unattractive appearance. They are dark, wrinkled, with dust. Too bright color in dried apricots, raisins, dried cherries suggests that they were most likely treated with sulfur dioxide or food coloring. Before eating, soak dried fruits for 20-25 minutes in water at room temperature, and then rinse thoroughly under running water.

Rule 2

When buying dried fruits, take a good sniff. The smell of gasoline, smoke leads to suspicion. Heavily cracked dried fruits - marriage.

Rule 3

In the store, try to buy dried fruits in transparent packaging - so you can immediately appreciate the color of dried apricots, the suspicious shine of prunes or raisins.

Rule 4

Pineapple, papaya, watermelon, mango, and some other types of fruits that are now sold in large quantities in stores are not dried fruits in the true sense of the word. These are candied fruits, as they are first candied and only then dried.

Rule 5

Rinse dried fruit thoroughly before eating to remove dirt and remove sulfur and chemicals.

Rule 6

If you want to make compote from dried fruits, then you do not need to boil them. Just fill them with boiling water and tightly cover with a lid and let it brew well.

Rule 7

Buy dates with pits, raisins and prunes with stalks. Such fruits retain useful substances better.

Rule 8

If you buy raisins, make sure that the berry has a stalk. Berries should not stick together.

Conclusion

Dried fruits are concentrated foods, so they should be consumed in moderation. It must be remembered that dried fruits are a mild laxative and diuretic. It is desirable to dry fruits by the old-fashioned way or on professional equipment. Thus, you will be sure of the quality of the berries. If you still prefer to buy dried fruits, then before use, you must definitely treat them with boiling water or soak them in water at room temperature, and then rinse with cold running water.

Today, fruit drying is widespread. Almost half of the products sold are raisins, dates, prunes, figs, apricots, peaches, apples and pears. They are referred to as "regular" or "traditional", which have been dried in the sun or in special wind tunnels. Many fruits such as cranberries, blueberries, cherries, strawberries and mangoes are soaked in sweeteners (such as sucrose syrup) before being dried. Some foods are sold as dried fruits, such as bananas, papayas, kiwis and pineapples.

They also include nuts: walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans, pistachios, Brazilian nut, hazelnuts, seeds, Pine nuts, peanuts, corn nuts, pumpkin seeds, soy nuts and macadamia nuts.

(You can learn more about macadamia nuts in this article).

They keep most nutrients fresh fruits. They all provide essential nutrients and a host of bioactive ingredients, making them a valuable tool for improving diet quality and helping to reduce the risk of chronic disease.

These foods can be whole (eg grapes, berries, apricots, plums) or pieces of fruit (eg mangoes, papayas, kiwis, bananas). The residual water content can vary from 3 - 8% to a significant 16 - 18%, depending on the type of fruit. Fruit can also be dried as a puree or as a powder. Also use the type of drying - sublimation (freeze drying). Fresh fruits are frozen and placed in a drying chamber under vacuum. Heat is applied and the water evaporates from the fruit while the fruit is still frozen. The fruit becomes very light and crispy and retains much of its original flavor.

They are widely used in confectionery and pastries. Manufacturing plants nutritionists use these foods in various sauces, soups, marinades, garnishes, puddings, and foods for infants and children.

Information...

• Successful drying depends on heat, dry air and good air circulation.
• Choose fresh, fully ripe fruits. Unripe fruits lack flavor and color. Drying does not improve the quality of food.
• Store them in tightly closed containers and in a cool, dry place.

Like all conservation methods, drying causes some loss of nutrients. Nutritional changes that occur during drying include:

calories: does not change, but is concentrated in a smaller mass, due to the removal of water.

Cellulose: without changes.

Vitamin A: Preserves quite well in controlled temperature.

Vitamin C: preprocessing with ascorbic acid or lemon juice increases vitamin C levels, although losses occur during the drying process.

thiamine, riboflavin, niacin

Minerals: Pretty well preserved.

For better nutrient retention in dry food products, store them in a cool, dark, dry place and use within a year.

Apple

Apples are high in phytonutrients ( natural component plants that provide nutrition) that act as antioxidants, ridding the body of cancer causing free radicals. They are also excellent source fiber.

Apricot

Are good source fiber, they also contain vitamin A, C and iron.

Mango

Exotic fruit, little sold in Russia. mango rich various vitamins A, C and E, as well as omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which are necessary for healthy skin and the immune system.

Cherry

Compared to other fruits, they have significantly higher levels of antioxidants, as well as important nutrients such as beta-carotene, folic acid, and fiber.

figs

While some fruits may lose some of their nutrients when dried, figs do not. Figs contain large amounts of iron, folic acid and potassium.

Papaya

Exotic fruit, also not sold in Russia. Called the "fruit of the angels" by Christopher Columbus, papaya is an excellent source of antioxidants. Recent studies have shown that they may help prevent diabetic heart disease.

Blueberry

Blueberries also contain vitamins A, E and B, which are essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Raisin

Raisins without cholesterol, with low content sodium, high in fiber and completely fat free.

Black currant

Blackcurrants are low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium and are high in vitamin C, manganese, iron, and potassium.

Plum

Such plums are called prunes. They are an excellent source of vitamins and have the added benefit of regulating the digestive system.

Pear

Pears are a good source of vitamin C and copper, and are full of dietary fiber.