It is fruity and sweet and a healthy snacking option. Or is it? Dried fruit has emerged as a convenient and delicious option for those looking to satisfy their sweet cravings while still nourishing their bodies.
While fresh fruit is undoubtedly nutritious, its dried counterpart is also deemed healthy. However, there are concerns about the sugar content and processing methods.
“I love dried fruits because they taste great and are a healthier alternative to sweets,” says Noxolo Kapa from Johannesburg.
Kapa adds that dried fruits are high in fibre, so they keep her regular and are also a vitamin D source.
“I prefer dried fruit over fresh fruit because it has a longer shelf life and generally tastes better.”
Noxolo Kapa
“I encourage people to add dried fruit to their diet when they want to cleanse; having a lot of prunes is an alternative to taking laxatives, which can be aggressive and cause pain. Having too much of it can, however, cause diarrhoea and flatulence,” she says.
Is dried fruit all that?
Jessica Ben from Johannesburg feels that dried fruits are a healthy snack with a lot of health benefits for her.
“I believe dried fruit has high fibre, is rich in antioxidants, and can help support my healthy blood sugar levels. I, however, prefer both fresh and dried fruit because I can experience their unique benefits.”
According to dietitian Olona Sonaba from Johannesburg, dried fruits are actual fruits that have been dried using various preservatives by various companies.
“Because dried fruits are altered using preservatives, the nutritional value will not be the same because preservatives make foods last longer than they should, possibly meaning that the nutritional value is not the same as having actual fresh fruit.”
Considering that dried fruits have added ingredients that ensure a longer shelf life, Sonaba mentions that they do not offer the same benefits as fresh fruit.
“With added ingredients and the taste being altered, fresh fruit is better because it is known to provide one with fibre, vitamins, and minerals, whereas with dried fruits there could be added sugar as opposed to natural sugar, which is found in fruits.”
Dietitian Olona Sonaba
“Fresh fruit is best; it’s cheaper and much more accessible than dried fruit. The same R60 used to buy a packet of deli-dried peaches can be used to buy a minimum of two packets of peaches where at least five people will feast.”
Moreover, dried fruit is considered a convenient snack with nutrients, especially fibre. Fibre is an important nutrient that helps keep us healthy and can also benefit heart health and blood sugar control, Sonaba explains. Dried fruit also contains more vitamins and minerals than fresh fruit, making it a great way to get a nutritional boost.
However, due to them being high in sugar and calories, it is essential to eat dried fruit in moderation.
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