Benefits of California Raisins

From their consistent color and flavor, to extending product shelf life, there are many advantages to using California raisins regularly in your recipes. We've outlined a few of those below.

Characteristics
Value
       Benefits
Natural
No surface treatment is used to aid in drying. The drying process is all-natural, performed 100% in the sun.

• Consistent color and flavor

• No chemicals, no additives

• 100% natural

Structural Integrity
Because of hand harvesting and sun drying the California raisin develops a firm, unbroken skin.

• Holds up to manufacturing processes

• Will not collapse

• Builds volume

Consistency
Careful harvesting and state-of-the-art processing ensure a consistent product crop to crop year.

• Consistent chewiness

• Meaty and firm

• Substantial particulate

Sweetness
Natural sun drying creates a sweet and fruity morsel. Sugar/Acid Ratio: 40:1 (approx.)

• An intense natural sweetener

• High fructose content

• Fruity taste

Humectancy
Natural sun drying creates a consistent moisture content. The water activity is low.

• Inhibits staling

• Softens products

• Extends shelf life

Color
Natural sun drying creates a consistent dark bluish/black color.

• Natural caramel color

• Won't bleed

• Adds visual contrast

Chemical Properties
Naturally occurring organic acids provide valuable side benefits to manufacturers. Tartaric acid: 1.5-2.2%, propionic acid.

• Enhances flavors

• Inhibits mold growth

• Natural preservative

Quality Control
A quality ethic backed by strict inspection procedures makes California raisins tops in the world.

• Aflatoxin negative

• Low microorganism count

• Impeccable purity