Raisin Nuts

Raisins are processed by sun drying and tray drying several different types of grapes. They are small and sweetly flavored with a wrinkled texture. Indian Raisins are available in different size and colors. They have a flavor similar to the grapes from which they are made, but the drying process which creates them concentrates the amount of sugar making them taste much sweeter. They are a naturally stable food and resist spoilage due to their low moisture and low pH.

The only raw material for making raisins is grapes. To make 1 kilo of raisins, over 4 Kg of fresh grapes are required. These grapes must have certain qualities in order to produce quality raisins. For example, they must ripen early and be easy to dry. Additionally, they must have a soft texture, not stick together when stored, have no seeds, and have a pleasing flavor. The most important grapes for raisin production include Thompson Seedless, Sonakka, Rudstalk. Raisin production for selected countries is forecast at almost 1.2 million metric tons (tons), up 100,000 tons from the previous year.