Raisins (Dry fruit) are natural sources of both valuable nutrients and a pleasantly sweet flavor. It is dried grapes that are popular shelf-stable snacks. The total production of raisin in 2016-2017 was 1,196,887 metric tons. Turkey, USA and South Africa are the largest raisin producers at the global level besides Iran, Australia, Afghanistan, China, Chile and others. It is produced commercially by drying grape berries. There are many drying methods are used for producing of raisins viz-: sun drying, shade drying, and mechanical drying but Sun drying is an inexpensive process; however, insect infections, environmental contamination and microbial deterioration can occur and the resulting raisins are often of low quality. Additionally, sun drying is a very slow process but in mechanical drying can be done in a safer and more controlled environment. Golden raisins had the highest antioxidant capacity and phenolic content. Raisins are not only important sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber in the diet but also provide a wide array of bioactive components or phytochemicals. It is a significant source of dietary fiber and polyphenols, which may reduce cardiovascular disease risk by affecting lipoprotein metabolism and inflammation.
د. محمد احمد قاسم السباعي | Dr. Mohammed Ahmed Qasem Alsebaeai | 6917