Is Dried Fruit Healthy?

Many of us were introduced to dried fruits as kids by the mini raisin boxes we got as snacks. And if you’ve stopped there, you’re missing out. Contrary to popular myth, dried fruit can be a wonderfully nutritious and delicious addition to your diet. These wrinkly wonders can be eaten straight from the bag, sprinkled on a salad or charcuterie board for a unique flavour profile, or added to your favorite home-baked treats. And that’s just scratching the surface. There are so many ways to incorporate these healthy morsels into your daily routine.

Is dried fruit good for you?

Dried fruit hasn’t always had the greatest reputation. But by weight, dried fruit actually contain more nutrients than fresh. With the water removed, the resulting product contains a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When looking for wholesome dried fruit choices, check for ones without added sugar, the use of artificial preservatives or color. And while no one will argue that chocolate or yogurt-covered raisins are tempting, they’re closer to candy than a body-boosting snack.

Rootalive’s dried fruit selections are minimally processed, organic and vegan, made with your health in mind. The fiber found in dried fruits helps you feel fuller for longer, and their natural sweetness helps cut your cravings for something sugary.

Dried fruit vs. fresh fruit

Dried fruits shouldn’t take the place of fresh fruits in your diet - there’s a time and a place for both. Fresh fruit and juices are delightfully refreshing and a hydrating treat. After all, what’s better than a slice of watermelon on a hot summer’s day or the sweet and tangy blend of a banana-strawberry smoothie? But dried fruit is tasty and convenient - easy to tuck away in a bag for a small, mess-free snack - no drips or sticky fingers, and the package can be quickly closed to enjoy at another time.

Dried options also offer you the opportunity to enjoy fruits that aren’t typically in season or available at your local supermarket. You may have snacked on dried mango, but have you tried some of the more unique choices out there? Fruits like jackfruit, pineapple and papaya can be difficult to find fresh, and their dried counterparts are a shelf-stable way to add these foods, and their unique blend of nutrients, to your meals.

Health benefits of dried fruit

If you’re looking to target a particular area of your health, eating the right dried fruit can help. Gut health has been a topic of interest for years and maintaining an ideal balance of good bacteria in your system can help you feel your best. Most dried fruits, particularly pineapple and jackfruit, are great for improving your digestive health, with high levels of fiber and prebiotics. Dried papaya and jackfruit are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants for an immunity boost, with extracts that help reduce cholesterol and improve heart health. Dried mango is rich in potassium, essential for physical function. And believe it or not, dried papaya may even help regulate the production of stress hormones in the body!

The next time you feel like a snack, challenge yourself to a handful of dried fruit. Your body will thank you for it.

They also make great on the go snacks for the entire family. Kids of all ages love our dried fruits so let those little hands reach for a pack or two!