Freeze-drying is a method of drying food in which the solvent (water) is removed using reduced temperature and reduced pressure. This type of method is also called “freeze drying”. This technique was used, among others, during World War II, when freeze-dried products were added to military food rations.
What can be freeze-dried? Products that can be dried in this way include fruit (e.g. strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, bananas), drinks (e.g. milk, coffee) and meat.
Process fruit freeze-drying allows you to preserve their valuable nutritional values. They contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They contain polyphenols that can: lower blood sugar levels and improve cognitive function – for example through a beneficial effect on memory. It is also a good source of fiber, which improves the functioning of the intestines and provides a feeling of satiety (thus preventing snacking and may be helpful in losing excess weight). Moreover, freeze-dried fruit has a longer shelf life. They are less susceptible to spoilage and much more convenient to transport.
It should be emphasized that freeze-drying fruit causes a significant concentration of naturally occurring ingredients. This means that they contain more carbohydrates and calories in a smaller portion than fresh fruit. There are approximately 330 kcal in 100 g of freeze-dried strawberries, so although freeze-dried fruit is healthy, you should not eat it in excess. Also remember to choose good quality freeze-dried fruit, which will contain only natural sugars found in fruit.
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Freeze-drying of fruit at home requires the use of specialized equipment. The cost of this type of devices usually reaches several or even several dozen thousand zlotys. Therefore, it is definitely a better option purchasing freeze-dried fruit in the store. When choosing this type of products, it is worth paying attention to whether they contain unnecessary additives, for example in the form of additional sugar.
At home, you can opt for traditional drying of fruit in the oven. This process should take place at a temperature of 50-70 degrees Celsius. Drying in the oven usually takes from several to several hours.
Freeze-dried fruit it is worth eating as a healthy snack. These products are definitely a better choice than chips, which contain unhealthy fats and large amounts of salt. What can freeze-dried fruit be used for? These products are worth adding to porridge, yogurts, breakfast cereals, granoli the muesli.
As already mentioned – freeze-dried fruit are characterized by a high concentration of ingredients. Therefore, smaller amounts of these products contain a lot of calories and sugar. This means that it is better to consume them in a way moderate and treated mainly as an addition to meals (although nothing stops you from eating a small handful of freeze-dried strawberries or bananas as a quick snack).
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl
