Fruit powders are versatile, highly nutritious and flavourful ingredients that confer numerous benefits. Yes, you can now relish your favourite fruit all around the year, rendering the same taste, and nutrition. They are obtained by dehydrating fresh whole fruits and grounding them into fine powders. The moisture content from fresh fruit is removed using processes like freeze-drying, spray-drying or air-drying. This method retains about 95% of the fruit’s nutrients, flavours, and natural colours while extending its shelf life.
Fruit powders are stored in a temperature-controlled atmosphere sealed in an airtight container before packing. They are available in numerous options, including apple, banana, strawberry, blueberry, mango, and more.
Take this two-minute read to learn more about what is fruit powder, its benefits, uses and side effects.
What Are the Health Benefits of Fruit Powders?
Loaded With Nutrients
Fruit powders are bestowed with a rich array of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, thereby making them a concentrated source of nutrition. Adding them to your regular meal plan helps to optimize overall health and well-being.
Also Read: Fruit Pairings to Avoid: The Science Behind Bad Combinations
Bolsters Immune System
Being a store of antioxidants and high in vitamin C they produce the white blood cells and strengthen the immune system. They are the perfect choice to fend off pathogens and keep illnesses at bay.
Promotes Digestion
A few fruit powders, like banana or papaya powder, contain natural digestive enzymes and are high in dietary fiber that supports a smooth digestion process, regularises bowel movements and optimises gut health.
Improves Skin Glow
The goodness of antioxidants in fruit powders helps in reducing oxidative stress, combat free radicals damaging healthy skin cells and nurture the skin complexion and tone from the inside out.
Boosts Energy Levels
Natural sugars in fruit powders provide an instant source of energy boost without any artificial additives. Regular addition of fruit powders helps you to stay refreshed and nourished all through the day.
Also Read: Best Berries: 5 Must-Have Tiny, Tangy Fruits For Enhanced Health - Infographic
Manages Weight
Being intrinsically low in calories, and sugar content and high in fiber, fruit powders can help feel satiated, reduce unwanted cravings, lower calorie intake and shed surplus kilos.
Uses of Fruit Powders
Fruit powders are resourceful food that can be used in numerous ways, such as:
They are natural flavour enhancers in smoothies, shakes protein powders, and juices to boost extra nutrition.
A key component in baked goods such as muffins, cakes, pastries, and cookies that enhances taste, sweetness and colour.
Sprinkle fruit powders liberally into yogurt, oatmeal, or cereals to enhance taste and nutrition.
It can be added to skincare products for natural exfoliation and glow.
Combine fruit powders with nuts, seeds, and honey to make healthy energy bars.
Stir fruit powder into herbal tea or water for a refreshing hot beverage.
Fruit Powder vs. Fruit Juice
Nutrient Density: Fruit powders are often more nutrient-dense than fruit juice, as they retain most of the dietary fibre and key nutrients.
Shelf Life: Fruit powders have a longer shelf life and don’t need any refrigeration like fruit juice.
Sugar Content: Generally, fruit juices are loaded with added sugars, whereas fruit powders have natural sugars without any additives.
Convenience: Fruit powders are lightweight and easy to store, making them convenient for travel and daily use.
Versatility: Unlike fruit juice, fruit powders can be used in a variety of recipes beyond beverages.
Side Effects of Fruit Powders
As fruit powders contain natural sugar, consuming excessive fruit powder can contribute to high sugar intake.
Some of the commercially available fruit powders may contain artificial additives, so it’s important to check the ingredient list.
Excess intake of fruit powders can lead to bloating or digestive discomfort due to high fiber content.
Conclusion
Fruit powders are an easy and nutritious way to reap the wellness incentives of fresh fruit in a shelf-stable form. They can enhance the flavour and taste of food and serve as a great alternative to fruit juices. However, it’s essential to choose pure, additive-free powders and consume them in moderation for optimal benefits.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
The Effect of the Addition of Fruit Powders on the Quality of Snacks with Jerusalem Artichoke during Storage
by Agnieszka Kita 1,*, Joanna Nowak 1 and Anna Michalska-Ciechanowska 2
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/10/16/5603
The use of fruit powders in extruded snacks suitable for Children's diets
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002364381200463X
