Are freeze dried strawberries good for you?
The dehydration process is similar to that of dried fruit; however, the texture of frozen strawberries is crunchier. Freeze-dried strawberries are a healthy complement to any balanced diet because of the many nutrients they provide. But are they good for you? There are many opinions on this, but the most common, backed by research, is that strawberries that are freeze-dried are rather healthy for human health.
With that in mind, let’s explore the nutritional value of strawberries that are freeze-dried in this article.
Nutritional Profile of Strawberries
Aside from their inherent sweetness, strawberries are a great source of potassium, fiber, folate, and antioxidants. Vitamin C, found in abundance in strawberries, plays a vital role in maintaining a strong immune system, promoting collagen formation in the skin and bones, and many other bodily functions. The daily recommended intake of vitamin C is equal to that of an orange, yet only eight strawberries provide the same amount!
Thanks to their anthocyanins and polyphenols, strawberries can also aid cardiovascular health and cognitive function by reducing inflammation. Their low glycemic index may also help with blood sugar management. In addition to being low in calories, salt, fat, and cholesterol, strawberries are bursting with taste.
Strawberry form, color, and nutritional content are preserved using the freeze-drying process. In this process, the fruit is frozen before being placed in a vacuum chamber, where the ice melts into vapor. The end product is a crispy, light strawberry, perfect for snacking on the go.
Benefits of Freeze-Dried Strawberries
Some of the most known benefits of freeze-dried strawberries include the following:
Packed with Fiber
Strawberries are rich in fiber, and even after freeze-drying, the nutrients remain full of fiber. Digestive regularity and lower cholesterol levels, which in turn lower the risk of heart disease, are two of fiber's many essential health benefits. Half a cup of freeze-dried strawberries can provide as much as 2 grams of fiber.
You won't want to snack on unhealthy foods in between meals if you eat fiber, which regulates your appetite. Strawberries that have been freeze-dried often have the same amount of fiber as their dried counterparts.
No Added Sugar
Freeze-dried strawberries do not have any additional sugar, unlike dried fruit. Due to their inherent sweetness, freeze-dried strawberries can be used as a nutritious substitute for dried fruit in baked goods like muffins and bread. The reduced calorie count of freeze-dried strawberries is due to the absence of added sugar. Opting for low-sugar meals can help those with diabetes or at risk of getting the condition avoid some of the health problems that typically come with it.
Very Few Calories
A 10-gram serving of freeze-dried strawberries has less than 40 calories. You can fulfill your sweet appetite with low-calorie strawberries while you are attempting to lose weight.
Antioxidants
The antioxidants in freeze-dried strawberries and mango peel off candies are more concentrated, making them more beneficial to your health. Strawberries are a good source of antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals caused by pollution and bad diet choices. Heart disease and cancer are only two of the many diseases that may be fought off by consuming foods rich in antioxidants, and freeze-dried strawberries can be one of those foods.
FAQs
What are some other ways to eat freeze-dried strawberries other than as snacks?
There are many other ways you can use these strawberries in your meals. You can add them in baked products, milkshakes, ice cream, yogurt, and cereal. Regardless of how you use them, they can be a healthier and tasty addition to your meals.
Is it good for you to eat freeze-dried fruits?
Definitely, freeze-dried fruits like strawberries preserve their nutrients even after getting processed. Frozen fruit is an excellent complement to a well-rounded diet because of the high concentration of antioxidants it contains.
How to make freeze-dried strawberries?
Slice the strawberries thinly to ensure that they dry uniformly. Freeze the slices before freezing to maintain their texture and taste. Use a high-quality freeze dryer to get consistent and efficient results. Store the freeze-dried strawberries in an airtight container to keep them crisp and fresh.
For how long can dried strawberries be used?
Dried strawberries can be stored in airtight containers or plastic bags and used for a long time. Just squeeze out all the air from the strawberries before sealing them in the bag or container. Before storing fruit in metal containers, wrap it in a plastic bag to avoid any potential reactions.
What gives freeze-dried strawberries their superior flavor?
Because the fruit loses water when freeze-dried, its weight drops and its sugar content is concentrated, allowing you to eat more servings per unit of product than you would with fresh fruit.