Superfoods can be termed as food items which are superior to other food items when compared in their nutritional value. Even small portions of a superfood can supply abundant nutrition in form of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and proteins. Many times superfoods can be termed as such because of some special characteristic or benefit that they provide such as it may provide relief from some ailment or disease, enhances immunity, reduces blood pressure, sugar or cholesterol and much more.
Due to various benefits health and otherwise that different dry fruits provide many a time dry fruits are also termed as superfoods. Dry fruits just like berries and nuts are high on antioxidants. They are also high in other nutrients and some dry fruits are believed to have unique properties like that they prevent ageing, sharpen intellect and much more.
Best Dry Fruits for Consumption
There are many dry fruits that a person can and should include in his daily diet. Some of these are good others are still better. So which are the best and most beneficial dry fruits and why? First in the list is, of course, almonds; they have zero cholesterol and are rich in antioxidants and fibre. Besides that, they are great for skin, hair and overall health. They are also believed to provide protection from the heart and many other diseases. Second on our list are Cashews, they are rich in Vitamin E and B6.
They also contain ample protein, potassium, monounsaturated fat and fibre. Walnuts are third on our list because they are loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, fibres, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals. Raisins, pistachios and dates will come next on the list. These dry fruits are rich in vitamins and proteins; they also boost immunity and prevent lifestyle diseases such as cholesterol and diabetes.
Various Benefits of Dry Fruits
Most dry fruits are rich in minerals, proteins, fibre and vitamins add to that they are tasty and delicious too. Dry fruits are an excellent and healthy substitute for daily snacks. Consumption of dry fruits enhances energy and stamina; also as they are rich in fibre which means better digestion and overall health. Nuts are a great source of protein and iron especially if you are a vegetarian.
Dry Fruits are also a rich source of Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorus, Protein, Riboflavin, Vitamin A-C-E-K-B6 and Zinc. This means healthy bones, muscles, nerves, teeth and skin. This also means protection from anaemia, heart diseases, high cholesterol, strengthening of immune system and much more.
How to include Dry Fruits in one’s Daily Diet?
Not all dry fruits are superfoods, neither is uncontrolled consumption of them good for health. Only a handful of dry fruits per day are more than enough to meet one’s daily need. Dry fruits are either sun-dried or are dried artificially, in both cases water is removed from the products which may mean a loss of nutrients and minerals in some cases. In many cases, chemical ingredients may be added such as artificial colours and more.
To avoid these shortcomings ensure that one only purchases natural and organic produce of dry fruits. Another factor to keep in mind is calorie intake; many dry fruits can be high on calories. Also as a volume of dry fruits is less many a time a person can consume a whole lot of the same without thinking much about it. The best way to include dry fruits in one’s daily diet is to use them as snacks or to include them in daily cooking and in various dishes
Huge Demand for Dried Fruits from Food Manufacturers to Spark the Industry Growth over 2018-2026
As published by Digital Journal, Dried Fruits are defined as the fruits from which the water content is removed naturally or artificially. The various drying methods used for drying fruits include Solar Drying, Vacuum Drying, Microwave Drying and Freeze Drying. More than 60% of the dried fruits market share is held by raisins. The unique properties of dried fruits like its unique flavour, rich nutrition profile, and prolonged shelf life and higher health benefits.
Dried Fruits market is driven by higher demand for healthy foods among the consumer groups. The rise in the number of working women is increasingly leading to a significant change in lifestyle.
This involves increasing preferences for convenience and ready-to-eat food products such as dried fruits. A study funded by International Nut and Dried Fruits Council (INC) says that eating dry fruits has various benefits on human health.
Dried fruits are a natural source of energy for athletes. Dried fruits are a rich source of good fat and calories. Dried fruits generally contain similar nutrients as fresh or frozen but are more concentrated. According to the researchers, dried fruit has about 3.5 times the amount of beneficial nutrients as fresh fruit.
Rising global urban population and per capita income are factors responsible for the boost in demand for industry products such as fruit snacks and cereals. Demand for dried fruits from food manufacturers, such as confectionery and bakery, as well as dairy companies is increasing all over the world, as these buyers purchase processed fruit products from industry operators for utilization of fruits in their manufacturing processes.
Advancements of modern retail formats, such as convenience stores and increased penetration of online stores, particularly in the Asian countries is resulting in increasing product visibility and improved product information. This enables easier access to food products, such as dried fruits, to consumers.
Look out for amazing opportunities and contacts at SuperFood Asia 2019. The world’s top F&B suppliers and buyers will descend onto Singapore for this showcase event. It is the perfect occasion to network and connect with the F&B industry game changers. Fast forward your business here!