Sulphured Dried Apricots are usually consumer's top choice when it comes to natural foods. However, the Conventional Dried Apricots case with the Conventional Dried Apricots (also called Sulphured Dried Apricots) is that they have different sulfur levels which can affect the color of the product. So, let's examine these differences, with a particular focus on the effects of low PPM and high PPM sulfur rates.
Conventional Dried Apricots are sulfonated to sulfur dioxide-based preservatives, which prolong the shelf life and color of the product. These are commonly referred to as Sulphured Dried Apricots . The primary difference between them is the amount of S added, which is ppm (parts per million) in the measure.
The low level of PPM (< 2000) is typical for apricots shipped to European countries and Japan.
The high level of PPM (>3000) is usually found in apricots shipped to the rest of the world.
The amount of sulphur used relates directly to the color of Conventional Dried Apricots:
High PPM Sulphured Dried Apricots: Here are the stats on these apricots - with a higher sulfur content, these apricots have a bright yellow, even golden hue. One of the main traits of Dried Apricots with high PPM levels is the very bright and attractive look. This color is usually associated by the consumers that decide whether the product is fresh or not.
Low PPM Sulphured Dried Apricots: These Sulphured Dried Apricots have a subtler yellow. They don't have such a brownish color as sun-dried ones and still have some similarities with the high PPM batches. The color differentiation can be an essential factor of choice as far as euros and Japan are concerned due to its lesser PPM being a certain standard of choice.
Sulfur dioxide gives a great variety of advantages. It is an agent that comes as preservative against the growth of fungus (mold) accompanied by bacteria. Through this process, shelf life is preserved for Conventional Dried Apricots for long periods. Besides this, sulfur also absorbs the natural color of the apricot preventing its browning which is unavoidable during the drying process.
Low PPM apricots are highly preferred in Europe and Japan where strict regulations on sulfur content in food are laid. The color may be less vibrant, but these markets are more focused on lower sulfur levels.
High PPM apricots are designed for regions where consumers have a preference for a more intense yellow color. In numerous places, this golden hue is considered to be the mark of quality and freshness.
Getting the low and high PPM Sulphured Dried Apricots makes the whole difference in choosing the right product for your market. While high PPM apricots have an upbeat golden hue, low PPM ones are more subtle and have a light-yellow tint. Whether your aim is the regions with strict sulfur regulations or the markets that prefer a vibrant appearance you have to know the sulfur levels implications for choosing the best option for your needs.