DRIED APPLE

Dried apples are slices, cubes, or whole apples that have been dehydrated to remove most of their moisture while retaining their natural flavor and nutrients. Below are the general specifications for dried apples:

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Physical specifications

Appearance: Thin slices, cubes, rounds or chunks (based on processing)

Color: Light cream to golden brown (depending on drying method)

Smell: Sweet and typical of fresh apples

Taste: Sweet, slightly spicy and fruity

Texture: Chewy or crunchy (depending on the level of dehydration)

Moisture content: ≤ 15% (semi-dry) or ≤ 5% (fully dehydrated)

Size: Varies (typically 4-8mm thick for slices)

 

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Chemical specifications

pH: 3.2 – 4.0

Sulfur dioxide (if treated): ≤ 2000 ppm (optional for color retention)

Acidity (as malic acid): 0.3 – 0.5%

Ash content: ≤ 2%

Natural sugars: 65-75%

 

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Microbiological specifications

Total Plate Count (TPC): ≤ 10,000 CFU/g

Yeast and mold: ≤ 100 CFU/g

Coliforms: ≤ 10 CFU/g

E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria: Negative

 

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Nutritional information (approximate) (per 100 g)

Energy value: 350 kcal

Proteins: 1-2g

Carbohydrates: 88-90 g

Sugars: 65-70g

Fiber: 7-8 g

Fat: 0.2-0.5 g

Vitamin C: 3-5 mg

Iron: 0.2-0.5 mg

Calcium: 10-15 mg

 

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Packaging and storage

Packaging:

Sealed in food-grade, moisture-proof bags or containers.

Available in consumer (100g-500g) or bulk (10kg-25kg) packaging.

Storage:

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Ideal temperature: ≤ 25°C with <60% relative humidity.

Shelf life: 12-18 months (with proper storage).

 

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Applications

Cooking:

It is used in baking (pies, muffins), snacks, mixes, cereals and desserts.

Industrial:

Flavorings for drinks, sauces and confectionery.

Health products:

It is used in healthy snacks and natural fruit bars.

Cosmetics:

It is sometimes used in skin care for its natural antioxidants.