When there are some dried apricots in a shop, it is common to realize that some are orange and others brown in color. This disparity in color is normally brought about by the drying process. There are the two most typical ones of sulphured dried apricots and unsulphured dried apricots. On the first sight it might seem like a mere change of color, but it is more than that. The process of drying affects the flavor, shelf life, nutrition and even the price in the market. We will answer what makes these two types different, the reason why it is important, and how we, as Dried Apricots Producers at MalatyaApricot.com, Turkish Dried Apricots Supplier and Exporter, and Apricot Kernels Producer, are able to keep the two traditions in our Dried Apricots Factory to serve the global demand.
Knowledge of Sulphured Dried Apricots
The dried apricots which are sulphured are a type of fruit which has been subjected to the Sulphur dioxide gas in the drying process. It is an ancient method that contributes to the increased preservation of the fruit and helps to preserve its beautiful golden-orange hue. The apricots after harvest are washed, peeled and then subjected to a special chamber whereby controlled contents of Sulphur gas are used. This helps in preventing browning, inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth and prolongs the product life of the apricots.
Such benefits make sulphured apricots one of the favorite items in the supermarkets and the large-scale retail markets in all regions of the world. The brighter color appeals to customers and the shelf life is longer meaning that the product can be transported to other countries without losing its freshness. The trade-off of using Sulphur however exists. There are those individuals who are allergic to sulphites, and in their case, this form of dried apricot can cause them discomfort. To some it might be experiencing a slight change in flavor as compared to the natural fruit. Nevertheless, in the world trade, sulphured dried apricots are still the dominant commodity due to their uniformity, beauty, and their safety in bulk distribution in case they are produced to the correct standards.
What Are Unsulphured Dried Apricots?
Unsulphured dried apricots are dried in natural conditions, in the sun or in regulated drying conditions, and the drying process uses no Sulphur dioxide or other preservatives. This is the technique that is based on the natural processes to minimize the moisture level, and it implies that the fruit is more likely to brown. This is the reason why unsulphured apricots tend to be darker with color being deep brown to amber.
Unsulphured dried apricots, though darker in color, have their customers. Their value is attributed to their whole nature and the lack of any chemical additives. The flavor is more diverse and more drastic and the fruit has retained its natural smell. The unsulphured apricots are preferred by prospective consumers who would like to consume organic and clean-label food. They are, however, associated with difficulties. They have less shelf life and need handling with great care to prevent spoilage and molds. This is why the unsulphured dried apricots are generally more costly and are taken as a premium product.
Varieties in Color, Tastes and Textures
It is simple to see the contrast between the sulphured and unsulphured dried apricots in their color. Sulphured ones are bright gold in color and unsulphured are darker since they are not inhibited to oxidation. This aesthetic element has an effect on the customer preference as most individuals have a tendency to be attracted to a more colorful product, though the flavor does not differ much.
Another way of difference is taste. Sulphured apricots are mild in taste with a tangy taste at times because of the presence of Sulphur. Unsulphured apricots in their turn are richer in taste and closer to the fresh fruit. Their inherently sweet taste is richer and it is more fulfilling to many. There is also a difference of texture, the sulphured apricots are usually softer and drier, the unsulphured being firmer and chewier as they have to dry further or they will spoil.
Which Type Should You Choose?
No one answer exists as to the better type. It is based on individual taste and market demands. Sulphured apricots are better in case you desire a product of longer shelf life, brighter color and uniform appearance. In case you like a natural product that contains no chemicals, you should go with unsulphured apricots which will be more expensive and have a darker look.
In MalatyaApricot.com as a reputable Turkish Supplier and Exporter of Dried Apricots, we are the manufacturers of both types of apricots to meet the demand of the world. Our Dried Apricots Factory contains technology and expertise to make sure that sulphured apricots meet international food safety requirements and to make sure that unsulphured apricots are dried in a hygienic clean environment, which is closely monitored.
Significance to Export and International Markets
In international trade, the sulphured and unsulphured dried apricots have a significant effect. Every area is different and has its own preferences and regulations. The demand of unsulphured and organic products increased in lots of western countries, and the labeling and maximum content of Sulphur dioxide are strictly regulated. At the same time elsewhere in the world, the bright-colored sulphured apricot still takes up the market due to its cheaper price and extended shelf life.
To exporters, taste and color are not the only issues. Shelf stability in the long distances of shipping, adhering to the food regulation and satisfying the purchaser are significant factors. This is the reason why we as a global Dried Apricots Producer ensure that we tailor production based on the target market. There is good control of quality which makes sure that the sulphured apricots are within legal limits of Sulphur and the unsulphured products are in compliance with the organic and natural food requirements.
How We Process at MalatyaApricot.com
We also boast of being among the most trustworthy producers of Malatya the hub of apricot farming. Since we are a professional Dried Apricots Producer and Apricot Kernels Producer, we take care of each step of the process.
In the case of dried apricots that are to be sulphured, we have the use of advanced chambers which enable exposure to Sulphur dioxide to be controlled and safe. This ensures uniformity in color and standards of international safety. In the case of dry apricots that are not sulphured we use sun-drying and modern drying methods to dry the apricots by avoiding the use of preservatives. Our departments check the temperatures, air circulation, and humidity of the fruit so that it is natural and safe.
All our batches are used in our Dried Apricots Factory where we test moisture level, color, microbial safety and taste. We also package our products in a way that preserves freshness in transportation causing safe delivery of our products to our customers across the world. We are a Turkish Dried Apricots Supplier and Exporter, which caters to the markets in Europe, North America, Asia and Middle East.
For Buyers and Consumers Knowledge on the difference between sulphured and unsulphured apricots will assist businesses and individual consumers to make informed decisions. The retailers and importers should consider the demand and regulations of the country where they are situated and the consumers can make a decision based on their health choices and taste. Bright golden apricots tend to be sulphured, whereas darker, browner ones are unsulphured. To the health-conscious individuals, unsulphured tends to be better. Sulphured apricots are convenient when it comes to the attractive presentation and extended storage period. Contact us today