What Are Freeze-Dried Fruits, and Why Are They Better?
The benefits of freeze-dried fruit in commercial kitchens cannot be overstated! It’s no secret that using raw fruit is a major hassle. It goes bad in the blink of an eye, and the consistency tends to vary wildly from batch to batch. Freeze-dried fruit is a simple solution that can work wonders in streamlining your operations while simultaneously improving the quality of your recipes.
Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, is the process of freezing fruit and putting it into a vacuum chamber. The fruit’s water content evaporates away, leaving just the solid fruit matter behind. So, what are freeze-dried fruits? They’re the same exact fruit, but without any moisture. They can be rehydrated or added to your culinary creations as-is.
Let’s explore the many reasons why so many businesses are switching over to freeze-dried fruit.
1. Shelf Stability
There’s a reason NASA astronauts bring freeze-dried fruit to outer space—it’s incredibly shelf-stable and doesn’t require cold storage. With a shelf life of approximately one year, you don’t have to worry about using it up by the end of the week. Keep it on hand so it’s always there when you need it. They’re a go-to ingredient you can always depend on.
2. Compact and Lightweight
Another one of the major benefits of freeze-dried fruit is its small size and lightweight. Even small batches of fresh fruit can take up a whole lot of space in the shelf or fridge. Freeze-dried fruits only occupy a tiny fraction of your valuable kitchen real estate. You could keep a year’s supply in a small cabinet! And, transporting it from point A to B is a breeze.
3. Consistent Flavor
Your customers expect consistent quality. Whether you’re selling baked goods, frozen treats, or craft brews, one bad batch can have lasting consequences. Freeze-dried fruits are what deliver big, bold flavors every time. Fresh fruit is susceptible to bruising, mold, enzymatic browning, and bacterial contamination. And, sometimes it just tastes off for no rhyme or reason!
4. Packed With Nutrition
The freeze-drying process removes moisture, but it still leaves 90% of the fruit’s original nutritional value intact. Your customers will appreciate that your products are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. And, because freeze-dried fruits have such powerful flavors, you might be able to start using fewer artificial sweeteners and additives.
5. Endless Versatility
What are freeze-dried fruits used for? Well, pretty much anything! One of the benefits of freeze-dried fruit is that it can be used as an easy substitute for fresh fruit in all sorts of recipes. As a general rule, ¼ cup of freeze-dried fruit equals 1 cup of fresh fruit. Of course, you’ll want to experiment with your recipes to nail the perfect ratio.
6. Eye Appeal
Freeze-dried fruits look just like fresh fruits, but smaller and drier. They retain the original structure and color of the fruit, so your customers can enjoy both an appetizing flavor and appearance. We eat with our eyes first, after all! And, for a traditional fruit look, rehydrating them is as easy as adding water.
7. Bolder Taste
What are freeze-dried fruits like when you eat them plain? It’s a flavor explosion in your mouth! Many commercial kitchens use freeze-dried fruits specifically because they have such strong flavors. Fresh fruit can only get you so far. If you really want to excite your customers’ palates (or just use less fruit), give freeze-dried fruit a try. You might just find that elusive secret ingredient that brings your recipes to life.
8. Convenient Bulk Ordering
Have you ever unloaded a fruit truck? It’s a feat that requires a ton of time and labor, not to mention the cost of shipping such heavy materials. Freeze-dried fruits are what you want to ship quickly and easily. Fast and affordable! We offer quantities of 1 LBS, 5 LBS, and 25 LBS so you can get a bulk supply of fruit without making a day out of it.
Experience the Benefits of Freeze-Dried Fruit
As you can see, freeze-dried fruit brings a whole lot to the table. Now that you’re familiar with the ultimate ingredient for commercial kitchens, shop our selection. We offer freeze-dried fruit chunks (chopped fruits), freeze-dried fruit pieces (whole fruits), and freeze-dried fruit powders. All of them are made from 100% natural, sun-ripened fruits picked in their prime.
What are freeze-dried fruits? They’re a game-changer for any industry that’s looking for a superior alternative to fresh fruit. If you’re ready to make the switch, join our wholesale program and start shopping! Questions? Contact us anytime. Boost your business with freeze-dried fruit!