persian rasins

raisin

Iran is the third largest exporter of raisin in the world by exporting 92,000 tons (7% global Consumption) of raisins worth around 70 million dollars annually. There are different varieties of Iranian Raisins; Sultana Raisins, Golden Raisins, Black Raisins and Green Raisins. The advantage of Iranian Raisins is principally its price and different methods of processing, and that’s the reason why Iranian Raisins are amongst the finest raisins in the world. Raisins are among the old and traditional Iranian dried fruits used in all kinds of nuts and especially cooking.

It is believed that humans discovered raisins when they happened upon grapes drying on a vine. History books note that raisins were sun-dried from grapes as long ago as 1490 B.C. But several hundred years passed before it was determined which grape variety would make the best raisin. In Iran we can divide the variety of raisins into Seeded Raisins Unseeded Raisins, Green raisins, rice raisins and currants. Green raisins and rice raisins are obtained from seedless grapes and Currant is provided from variety of seeded grapes. We explain raisins preparation method, because these names are related to raisins preparation method as well as the kind of grapes, which is used in raisins production. In Iran over 200 varieties of grapes have been named in different languages, but it is obvious that most of these names are related to one item that has found different names in different locations.

Raisins can contain up to 72% sugars by weight, most of which is fructose and glucose. They also contain about 3% protein and 3.7%–6.8% dietary fiber. Raisins, like prunes and apricots, are also high in certain antioxidants, but have a lower vitamin C content than fresh grapes. Raisins are low in sodium and contain no cholesterol.

Raisins Benefits

Raisins are an exceptional source of naturally occurring chemicals called phytonutrients, such as phenols and polyphenols. These types of nutrients are considered antioxidants. Studies have shown that raisins contain phytochemicals that could promote healthy teeth and gums. Phytochemicals present in raisins, including oleanolic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid, fight the bacteria in your mouth that lead to cavities. In other words, eating raisins in place of sugary snack foods can actually keep your smile healthy.

One-half cup of raisins will give you 2.7 grams of fiber, or roughly 6 to 12 percent of your daily needs, depending on your age and gender.

Raisins are a good source of iron. One-half cup of raisins contains 1.4 milligrams of iron. That’s about 7 percent of the recommended daily amount for most adult females, and 17 percent for adult men.

Raisins have about 36 milligrams of calcium per 1/2-cup serving. This translates to about 5 percent of your daily needs.

Raisins are either brown or golden. Brown raisins are sun-dried, typically by laying them out in the vineyards for two to four weeks, after which the raisins are graded, cleaned, and packed. Golden raisins (with the exception of sultanas) are typically oven-dried and often treated with sulfur dioxide to preserve their color. Most often, brown raisins are used in baked goods, while golden raisins are preferred for savory dishes. Generally, all raisins are inexpensive, which adds to their appeal.