FREEZE-DRIED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

What is freeze-drying?

Freeze-drying is the most effective method for preserving foods. The technique consists of eliminating moisture from food by means of sublimation. With this process, unlike other drying systems, food doesn’t lose its nutritional and organoleptic properties and texture is maintained very well without the use of artificial elements.

How is freeze-drying done?

Water is removed from the food product by converting it directly from ice to gas. This is done in a freeze dryer which exploits the properties of vacuums and low temperatures.

1. The product is frozen to a temperature of minus 40 °C.
2. The pressure is reduced to 0.001 mbar, which is almost a vacuum.
3. At this point, sublimation occurs.
4. Moisture in the form of ice is converted directly to gas.
5. The product is now freeze-dried, retaining its nutritional and organoleptic properties.

Characteristics of freeze-dried foods

1. Their organoleptic properties are maintained.
2. Proteins are not denatured, since high temperatures are not used in the process.
3. Lack of moisture prevents enzymatic, biological and chemical alterations.
4. Spoilage is prevented, which prolongs shelf life.
5. Weight is reduced considerably, which makes transport easier.
6. When rehydrated, the products are restored to nearly their original natural state.
7. Rehydrated foods have a crispier texture.
8. Foods are easier to consume.

What is the difference between freeze-dried and dehydrated?

Fruit and vegetables that have been freeze-dried will keep for up to 12 months since they contain no moisture, while foods that have been dehydrated do not keep as long since not all the water has been removed.

Another thing to bear in mind is that freeze-drying preserves the original flavour of the product.

Are freeze-dried foods healthy?

Yes, they are healthy. No food additives are used in the freeze-drying process, only vacuum-freezing and thawing.

What are the uses and applications of freeze-dried fruit? 

Where can I buy freeze-dried fruits and vegetables?

SOC CHEF offers high-quality whole, powdered and crispy freeze-dried fruits and vegetables for professional use.

Our chefs choose SOC CHEF freeze-dried fruit and vegetables because...

• • They are full-flavoured.
  • They have a very crunchy texture.
  • We offer a wide range of freeze-dried products.
  • We use top-quality raw ingredients. 

 

Presentation of the SOC CHEF range of fruit and vegetables

We offer a wide range of fruits and vegetables in different shapes and textures for use as ingredients, flavourings, decorations, etc. to meet the needs of every chef and every kitchen.