What is RAISIN?
RAISIN or Dried grapes are the dried, ripe fruit of the grapevine (Vitis Vinifera). After grapes reach the desired sugar content, they are harvested, washed, dried, sorted and packed.
production process
Before drying, grapes may be dipped into a chemical solution to remove natural wax from the skin of the fruit. This process shortens the drying time and enables a lighter skin color. Traditionally, this solution is made of potassium carbonate and olive oil, but other substances are used too (such as ethyl esters). Grapes can be dried in the air (in the sun or in the shade) or in drying facilities. Sundried grapes have a darker skin color compared to grapes dried in the shade.
Dried grapes can be treated by sulphuring with sulphur dioxide, which is the common production process for the golden yellow types. In order to prevent the raisins from agglomerating (sticking together), they are often coated with vegetable oil.
According to the type of grape and the production process, there are different types of raisins:
Sun Dried raisins, Sultanas raisins, Golden raisins, Green raisins, Currants.
Raisin’s Usage
Raisin as an ingredient
Dried grapes are mostly used as an ingredient for bakery, confectionery products, chocolate snacks and some innovative products such as fruit bars, fruit and nuts snack mixtures and breakfast cereals.
Healthy snacking
dried grapes could be used as an alternative for healthy snacking between meals, or even for snacks that can replace meals in full. If you want to care of your general health and wellness, it’s better to replace dried grapes with savoury snacks such as potato chips and other crisps.
on the go meals
dried grape could be used as a flexible, light and convenient snacking option eaten on the go nowadays with busy lifestyles, consumers are replacing traditional lunch breaks with healthy snacking moments.
Raisin’s Benefits
Raisins are full of iron, copper and B complex vitamins; they are a valuable addition to daily diet. anemia or iron deficiency can be eliminate by regularly consuming raisins.
Cancer High levels of polyphenolic antioxidants, known as catechins, destroy free radicals that lead to the occurrence of tumors, particularly colon cancer. Poor Digestion Raisins contain rich content of fiber. They serve as a great remedy to treat chronic constipation. Raisins regularize bowel movements, and keep gastrointestinal tract healthy Fever Since they are rich in phenolic phytochemicals, they are great antibacterial and antioxidant agents.
Raisins are helpful in relieving bacterial infections or fever caused by viruses. Poor Eye Health It also include many polyphenolic phytonutrients that are great for ocular health. Because they protect eyes from many damages caused by free radical. They are also good sources of vitamin A and beta carotene to improve eyesight for maintaining good eye health.
Low Energy Raisins are full of carbs, especially natural sugars including glucose and fructose. This is why raisins are always handy when it is need a quick boost of energy. They also help in good absorption of all essential nutrients including proteins in the body.
Bad Dental Health Another great benefit of raisins is that it contains a phytochemical called oleanolic acid that offers incredible protection against all kinds of dental problems. If somebody suffers from cavities, tooth decay or brittle teeth; raisins will prevent any bacterial growth in the mouth. Moreover, raisins are also rich in calcium to protect tooth enamel.
Hypertension Raisins regulate blood flow and decrease high blood pressure. Since they contain many antioxidants along with iron, potassium and B-complex vitamins; It’s helpful in reducing the stiffness of blood vessels.
This greatly helps in relieving and lowering hypertension. The absence of sodium makes it a great snack during hunger pangs. Cures Insomnia They are also recommended as a beneficial treatment to help sleep disorders. It’s guaranteed to fix a distorted sleep pattern.
Poor Bone Health Raisins contain good amounts of calcium. This is important to strengthen bones and relieve joint pain. Raisins are also great sources of a micronutrient, It’s also beneficial in preventing menopause induced osteoporosis and supports good bone health.
