Apples, dehydrated (low moisture)
Category: Fruits & Fruit Juices Characteristics: Sulfured Method: Stewed
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
143
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 154 (100%) |
| Protein | 2.2 (1.5%) |
| Fat | 2.1 (1.5%) |
| Total | 143 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [193g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 153 (79.4%) |
| Carbohydrate | 38 (19.9%) |
| Ash | 0.6 (0.3%) |
| Protein | 0.5 (0.3%) |
| Fat | 0.2 (0.1%) |
| Total | 193 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [193g]
Benefits
-
High in fiber which aids digestion and makes you feel full for longer
-
Contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and may reduce risk of chronic diseases
-
Low in calories which helps with weight management
-
Provide vitamins A and C which are important for immune function and vision
-
Sulfuring helps preserve the apples and maintain their texture, flavor and nutrients during dehydration process
Risks
-
High in sugar and calories. Dried apples are more concentrated source of sugar and calories compared to fresh apples
-
May contain sulfites. Sulfured dried apples contain sulfites which some people can be sensitive or allergic to
-
High in sodium. The stewing and sulfuring process can introduce sodium into the dried apples
-
Loss of nutrients. The drying process can reduce heat-sensitive vitamins and minerals compared to fresh apples
-
Choking hazard. Dried apples may pose choking risk for young children due to their small, hard size and shape
Additional Information
Apples, dehydrated (low moisture), sulfured, stewed are a unique variation of the popular fruit that undergoes a specific preservation process. Let's delve into the nutritional benefits and risks associated with this particular item.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Dietary Fiber: Dehydrated apples, like their fresh counterparts, are a rich source of dietary fiber. Fiber aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. A single cup of dehydrated apples provides around 6 grams of fiber, which is approximately 20% of the recommended daily intake.
2. Antioxidants: Apples are known for their high antioxidant content, and this characteristic is retained even after the dehydration process. Antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer.
3. Vitamins and Minerals: Dehydrated apples contain various essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly abundant in vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen synthesis. Additionally, they provide small amounts of vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, and manganese, which contribute to overall health and wellbeing.
4. Convenient Snack: The dehydration process removes the majority of the water content from the apples, resulting in a lightweight and portable snack. Dehydrated apples are a convenient option for on-the-go individuals and can be easily incorporated into trail mixes, oatmeal, or homemade granola bars.
Nutritional Risks:
1. Added Sulfur: The mention of "sulfured" in the description indicates that sulfur dioxide has been used as a preservative during the dehydration process. While sulfur dioxide helps prevent browning and microbial growth, it can trigger adverse reactions in individuals with sulfur sensitivities or asthma. It is essential for those with known sensitivities to avoid or limit the consumption of sulfured foods.
2. Concentrated Sugar: Dehydrated apples have a significantly higher sugar content compared to fresh apples. The dehydration process removes water but concentrates the natural sugars present in the fruit. This can be a concern for individuals who need to monitor their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or individuals following a low-sugar diet. Moderation is key when consuming dehydrated apples to avoid excessive sugar consumption.
3. Nutrient Loss: The dehydration process can cause some nutrient loss, particularly heat-sensitive vitamins like vitamin C. While dehydrated apples still contain valuable nutrients, it's important to note that they may have slightly lower vitamin content compared to fresh apples. However, the overall nutrient density is still relatively high, making them a nutritious snack option.
In conclusion, dehydrated apples that are low in moisture, sulfured, and stewed offer several nutritional benefits, including dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it's important to be mindful of the added sulfur and concentrated sugar content. As with any food, moderation and individual considerations should be taken into account when incorporating dehydrated apples into a balanced diet.