Dried apricots

Factors Influencing the Price of Dried Apricots

The price of dried apricots can vary depending on several factors. These include the type and quality of the apricot, the place of purchase, brand, and product weight. High-quality and reputable dried apricots usually have a higher price, but they also offer more value. Local stores may have different pricing, so comparing prices in various places can help you find the best deal. Ultimately, it’s recommended to calculate your required amount carefully and make a purchase based on product quality to ensure a satisfactory choice.

“The varying prices of dried apricots in the country are due to differences in quality and product characteristics. Dried apricot, being a flavorful fruit, comes in different grades, which directly affect its price. This product is available in both homemade and industrially produced forms across the country, each offering different qualities that influence its final price. Packaging, product quality, and weight are key factors affecting the price.

Eliminating intermediaries in buying and selling dried apricots can help simplify the process and reduce costs. During winter, dried apricots are particularly popular before Nowruz and are in high demand as part of Yalda night nuts. High-quality Iranian dried apricots can be sold at reasonable prices, but an increase in production in a specific year may lead to a decrease in price.

Premium Dried Apricots

Dried apricots are produced in various types, including organic, sulfur-treated, and sun-dried. Each of these types can affect the price. Premium dried apricots cost more than second- or third-grade ones.

Dried Apricot Prices

Apricots are available in fresh, dried, and semi-dried forms. Due to its longer shelf life, dried apricot holds a special place in the market. Buying dried apricots allows you to enjoy them for a longer time. Online markets have facilitated the sales and purchases of dried apricots, and Iran, being the second-largest producer of apricots globally, enables producers to sell in bulk and export. This method of sales is easier than traditional markets and has significantly boosted the sale of dried apricots.

Buying Dried Apricots

When buying dried apricots, the first thing to consider is selecting a reliable source. Typically, you can find dried apricots at major stores offering dried fruits. Online stores also provide the convenience of ordering your desired product from home. In any case, pay attention to freshness and quality to ensure a safe and enjoyable purchase. Mojan dried fruit products, using the latest scientific methods, proudly offer high-quality dried fruits with standard moisture levels for dried fruit lovers.

Health Benefits of Dried Apricots

Dried apricot is a miraculous fruit rich in nutrients such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin A, beta-carotene, dietary fiber, iron, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Due to its diverse and rich composition, dried apricot is highly beneficial for health. Below are some of its medicinal properties:

• Relief for Constipation: Dried apricot is rich in pectin and cellulose, acting as a natural laxative to help relieve constipation. It supports better digestion and gut function.
• For Children and Infants: Dried apricot contains high levels of vitamins and minerals essential for children’s growth. Its fiber content helps support digestive health and ease constipation in babies. You can introduce it from six months onward but avoid overconsumption as it may cause diarrhea or bloating.
• For Lungs and Cough: Dried apricot has anti-cough properties and is beneficial for lung health. Studies suggest it may help prevent lung cancer.
• For Liver: It boosts liver activity and aids in treating and preventing liver diseases such as fatty liver. It helps eliminate waste and supports detoxification.
• For Anemia: With high iron content, dried apricots promote red blood cell production and help treat anemia. It also assists in managing high blood pressure.
• During Pregnancy: Dried apricots can help prevent anemia in pregnant women. Containing copper and potassium, they are recommended in weight-loss and pregnancy diets. They also aid in treating infertility, postpartum bleeding, cramps, and vaginal infections.

What is the nature of dried apricots? According to traditional medicine, dried apricots have a warm and dry nature.

Difference Between Fresh Apricots and Dried Apricots

Fresh apricots are a delicious and popular summer fruit, widely available during the season. Dried apricots, on the other hand, are a derivative and categorized as a snack. The main difference lies in their water content and flavor.

How to Make Dried Apricots at Home

There are several methods for preparing dried apricots at home:

Sun Drying

1. Prepare a mesh tray for drying fruits or sweets.
2. Select the best apricots, cut them in half, and remove the pits.
3. Place them with the cut side facing up on the tray.
4. Leave them in the sun for 3 to 7 days to dry.

Drying with Salt or Lemon Solution

1. Dissolve two tablespoons of salt in 4 liters of water.
2. Soak ripe apricots in the saltwater or lemon-water solution.
3. Cut them in half and remove the pits.
4. Slightly press them to release the inner content.
5. Place them on a tray and cover with mesh fabric to protect from insects.

Oven Drying

1. Wash, dry, and halve the apricots, removing the pits.
2. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray.
3. Set the oven to 50°C and place the tray inside.
4. When the skin begins to wrinkle, raise the temperature to 65°C and continue until fully dried.
5. Leave the oven door slightly open to let moisture escape.
6. After drying, let the apricots cool for 12 hours at room temperature.

Microwave Drying

1. Wash and thinly slice the apricots, not too thin to stick to the microwave plate.
2. Place the slices evenly on the microwave tray with proper spacing.
3. Set the microwave to defrost mode for 30 minutes.
4. If not dried, repeat for another 5–10 minutes.

Using a Food Dehydrator

1. Wash and dry the apricots.
2. Remove pits and slice thinly.
3. Place them cut side up in the dehydrator.
4. Follow device instructions (typically 57°C for 12 hours).

Nutritional Value of Dried Apricots

• Per 100 grams of dried apricots, you get:
• 241 calories
• 4g protein
• 5g fat
• 63g carbohydrates
• 3g fiber
• 1160mg potassium
• 55mg calcium
• 3mg iron
• 32mg magnesium
• 71mg phosphorus
• 2mcg selenium
• 180mcg vitamin A
• 1mg vitamin C
• 3mg vitamin K
• 2mg zinc

Additionally, apricots or dried apricots contain various polyphenolic compounds such as gallic acid, rutin, epicatechin, ferulic acid, procyanidin, caffeic acid, epigallocatechin, and chlorogenic acid, all of which act as antioxidants.

Warm Nature of Dried Apricots: Beneficial for the Body

Dried apricots, derived from fresh ones, have a warm nature. This characteristic makes them a nutritious and healthy addition to your diet. Their warmth is especially appreciated during cold seasons, aiding in energy and heat boost.

Benefits of Warm-Natured Dried Apricots

1. Immune System Boost: The warm nature helps strengthen immunity against illnesses and infections.
2. Energy Enhancement: High natural sugar content provides daily energy and reduces fatigue.
3. Digestive Health: High fiber aids digestion and prevents constipation.
4. Skin Benefits: Helps retain skin moisture and prevents dryness.