Drying fruit is the oldest method of preserving it and is a convenient way to add sugar and fibre to a diet. Being lighter to carry than fresh fruits, with no messy juices or peelings, a handful of dried fruit can give an instant energy boost with an injection of vitamins and minerals too.

To produce dried fruit, the water is removed from fully ripened fresh fruit, by circulating air around it, either naturally with sunshine and wind, or with the aid of hot air drying. The moisture content of the evaporated fruit is cut to about 20-25%. The nutritional value of food is only minimally affected by drying. However, dried fruit generally does not contain Vitamin D and only contains small amounts of Vitamin C.

Food Value of Dried Fruit

• Drying concentrates the nutrients of the fresh fruit including protein, carbohydrate (in the form of natural fruit sugar), and dietary fibre

• Rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and Pantothenic Acid

• An abundant source of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, copper and manganese

• Contains around 60-70% natural sugars which occur in an easily digestible form (Glucose and Fructose), and quickly enter the bloodstream giving instant energy

• Low in fat

While all dried fruit is good for you, dried plums (prunes) are antioxidant superstars, being among the highest fruits in total antioxidant activity. Antioxidants work to prevent cancer, heart disease, cataracts, and other diseases associated with ageing, by mopping up the free radicals that damage cells.

Apple

The apple is a good source of dietary fibre, providing you with nearly 20% of your needs for the day.

Apples are a good source of the antioxidant Vitamin C that helps to maintain a healthy immune system. This powerful antioxidant aids in defending the body against damaging free radicals.

Apples and apple products contain between 3% and 8% of the daily value for potassium. Consuming 3500 milligrams of this essential nutrient each day may help reduce high blood pressure.

Apricots

Very rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene which is essential for growth, healthy hair, skin, bones, teeth and eyes. They are full of fibre and help maintain a healthy gut. Apricots contain calcium and magnesium.

Blackberries

Blackberries are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. They are a good source of folate, magnesium, potassium and copper. Blackberries are an excellent source of dietary fibre, vitamins C & K and manganese.

Blueberries-SuperFood?

One of the few nutritional secrets agreed on by scientists and alternative health experts alike is that this blue fruit is unchallenged in its detoxing brilliance. Similar - but superior - to other dark-skinned berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and red & black grapes, blueberries contain high levels of bioflavinoids, which can help to fight the damage caused by overindulgence in processed foods and alcohol, and lack of sleep.
Blueberries were one of only fourteen "superfoods" identified by Dr Steven Pratt in his 2004 best-selling book "SuperFoods Rx". He explained the concept of superfoods as:"some foods are better than others for your health".
They are an excellent source of zinc and other antioxidants.

Cherries

Thought to help with a wide range of conditions that affect the joints, including arthritis, gout and rheumatism.

Cranberries

Have anti-bacterial qualities which helps maintain urinary tract health.

Currants

A good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, niacin, pantothenic acid and biotin.

Dates

High in potassium and dietary fibre. They are also a good source of energy-boosting iron.

Figs

A good source of calcium.

Ginger

Ginger root (Zingiber officinale) has also been classified as an aid to quit smoking. It has a soothing effect on the lining of the mucous membranes and helps prevent nausea.

Goji Berry

Contains 19 amino acids, the building blocks of protein including all eight that are essential for life,
21 trace minerals, including germanium, an anti-cancer trace mineral rarely found in foods.
They have more protein than whole wheat (13 percent)and have
a complete spectrum of antioxidant carotenoids, including beta-carotene (a better source than even carrots!) and zeaxanthin (protects the eyes). Goji berries are the richest source of carotenoids of all known foods.
They contain Vitamin C at higher levels than even those found in oranges as well as the B-complex vitamins, necessary for converting food into energy.
They contain Vitamin E (very rarely found in fruits, only in grains and seeds)and
Beta-Sitosterol, an anti-inflammatory agent. Beta-Sitosterol also lowers cholesterol and has been used to treat sexual impotence and prostate enlargement.
Gojis contain essential fatty acids, which are required for the body’s production of hormones and for the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system.
Also present is Cyperone, a sesquiterpene that benefits the heart and blood pressure, alleviates menstrual discomfort, and has been used in the treatment of cervical cancer and Solavetivone, a powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial compound.
They also contain Physalin, a natural compound that is active against all major types of leukemia. It has been shown to increase splenic natural killer cell activity in normal and tumor-bearing mice, with broad-spectrum anti-cancer effect. It has also been used as a treatment for hepatitis B.
Gojis contain Betaine, which is used by the liver to produce choline, a compound that calms nervousness, enhances memory, promotes muscle growth, and protects against fatty liver disease. Betaine also provides methyl groups in the body’s energy reactions and can help reduce levels of homocysteine, a prime risk factor in heart disease.It also protects DNA.

Liquorice

Not a fruit but a plant root/herb in its natural form, although we also sell a delicious soft processed liquorice. Liquorice has been used since ancient times as both a food and a medicine. Chinese herbal formulas nearly all contain the herb. It is one of the most biologically active foods known, boasting numerous health benefits that affect the immune, circulatory, renal, respiratory and endocrine systems.

Mango

Contains Vitamins C, A, folate potassium and fibre

Papaya

The nutrients and fibre in papaya have shown to be helpful in the prevention of colon cancer.

Peaches

Peaches offer a source of carbohydrates, protein, dietary fibre, vitamin C and vitamin A. This nutritious fruit also contains boron, known to boost estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, stimulate the brain, and aid in prevention of osteoporosis.

Pears

Pears offer a good source of vitamin C, folate, and dietary fibre. Providing some iron and potassium, Pears contain pectin, a soluble fibre that helps control cholesterol levels, and cellulose, an insoluble fibre that promotes normal bowel function.

Pineapple

A good source of manganese, thiamin and riboflavin.

Prunes

Having twice the level of antioxidants of any other fruit or vegetable, prunes have the ability to eradicate damaging free radicals. They are high in fibre and make an excellent natural laxative.

Raisins

Contain boran, iron and potassium, while their natural high sugar content makes them an ideal energy food.

Raspberries

The anti-oxidant phytonutrients in raspberries can help to improve learning capacity and motor skills.

Strawberries

The ellagitannin content of strawberries has been associated with helping prevent cancer.

Sultanas

Contain Vitamins B1 and B2, various minerals and are a good source of energy.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. They are also a very good source of molybdenum, potassium, manganese, dietary fibre, chromium, and vitamin B1. In addition, tomatoes are a good source of vitamin B6, folate, copper, niacin, vitamin B2, magnesium, iron, pantothenic acid, phosphorous, vitamin E and protein.