Frozen raspberries

Specifications of frozen raspberries

Frozen raspberries are made from fresh, ripe and healthy raspberries that have been cleaned, sorted and frozen to preserve their quality. Below are the general specifications:

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Product description

Frozen raspberries are available as whole fruit, crushed or pureed, preserved by individual quick freezing (IQF) or block freezing.

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General specifications

1. Varieties:

Common varieties include Meeker, Willamette, Heritage or other approved varieties.

 

2. Freezing method:

IQF (Individual Quick Frozen): Ensures berries remain separate and free-flowing.

Block Frozen: Used for industrial applications (eg jams, purees).

 

 

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Physical characteristics

1. Appearance:

Bright red to dark red color characteristic of ripe raspberries.

Intact, whole grains with minimal deformation.

 

2. Size:

Sorted by diameter, usually 10–20 mm or as specified by the buyer.

 

3. Texture:

Firm when frozen, soft and juicy when thawed.

 

4. Taste and aroma:

Sweet to sharp taste, characteristic of raspberries, without unpleasant aftertastes.

 

 

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Chemical and microbiological requirements

1. Brix level:

Typically 6–10° Brix (natural sweetness).

 

2. pH:

It usually ranges between 3.0–3.5 (slightly acidic).

 

3. Pesticide residues:

Must comply with local and international regulations (eg EU MRLs, FDA).

 

4. Microbiological limits:

Total plate count: <100,000 CFU/g.

Yeast and mold: <500 CFU/g.

E. coli: Negative.

Salmonella: Missing in 25 g.

 

 

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Defects (tolerances)

1. Foreign substances:

Not allowed (eg leaves, stems, stones).

 

2. Unripe or overripe fruits:

<5%.

 

3. Broken or crushed fruit:

<10% for IQF; higher tolerance for frozen blocks.

 

4. Freezer burn:

Minimal or none.