The Difference Between Dried Fruits Vs Dehydrated Fruits

In today's pursuit of healthy eating, dried fruits and dehydrated fruits are often used as snacks or food alternatives. But what are the differences in their production processes, nutritional content, and health effects? This article will give you an in-depth analysis.

What is dried fruit and dehydrated fruit?

Dried fruits are generally dried by natural sun drying or low-temperature air drying (such as raisins and dried apples) to remove moisture without adding artificial calories, but sometimes sugar or other additives are added to optimize the flavor and taste of the dried fruits.

Dehydrated fruit refers to the use of specific drying technology to reduce the moisture content of the fruit to less than 10%, or even lower, in order to maximize the retention of the fruit's nutrients and flavor, while extending the shelf life.

A dehydrated fruit is a dried fruit but a dried fruit is not necessarily a dehydrated fruit. Everything depends on the quality of the drying process used.

What are the characteristics of dried fruits and dehydrated dried fruits?

Dried fruits are more suitable for foods that require a soft texture and high sweetness, such as baked goods, breakfast cereals, etc.

Dehydrated fruits (especially freeze-dried fruits) are more suitable for scenarios that need to retain nutrients and original flavors, such as healthy snacks, sports nutrition foods, etc.

What is usually added to dried fruits?

Added sugar

During the processing, sugars that are usually added include white sugar, glucose syrup, fructose syrup, honey, etc. The purpose is to make up for the natural sweetness lost during the processing (such as dried mango ，dried strawberries and dried cranberries), and also to extend the shelf life of the product. Of course, the most important reason is to make the taste and flavor of dried fruits reach the best.

After all, sometimes the sourness of some dried fruits makes it unbearable for consumers. Studies have shown that the human body needs to consume a certain amount of sugar to provide energy and maintain stable blood sugar levels, but the key is to choose a healthy source of sugar and control the intake, especially to reduce the intake of added sugar. By consuming sugar reasonably, you can meet the body's energy needs while avoiding health problems caused by excessive sugar intake.

Preservatives

Usually used to prevent browning and inhibit mold.

Artificial colors

Artificial colors are usually used to make dried fruits more visually attractive and increase appetite.

Reasons for choosing dried fruit or dehydrated fruit?

If you are looking for dried fruit without additives and retaining the original flavor, then dehydrated fruit is undoubtedly your first choice. In terms of health and nutritional value, it is better and more natural than dried fruit.

From the processing method, there is no difference between the two processing methods of dried fruit. The key lies in the retention of nutrition and the control of additives. The right amount of additives will not affect the human body. Consumers can choose the right product according to their own situation.

In terms of taste, dried fruits are softer and more sticky, while dehydrated fruits are crisper and more crisp. At the same time, they are also very different in terms of application areas. Consumers can choose according to actual use and taste.

Summary: No matter which form of dried fruit is chosen, it needs to be consumed in moderation, otherwise it will cause a burden on the body. Of course, if the body allows, there is no harm in consuming some dried fruit. After all, dried fruit that is loved by so many people makes us feel happier and produces dopamine to a certain extent. You don't always need healthy but unpalatable food. Occasionally consuming some food that may not be so natural is also beneficial to our physical and mental health.