Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery Magazine
Author: Joyce Friedberg
“Fruits can add a pop of color, flavor, and texture to snack and bakery products, but with consumers being more mindful of health and wellness, the use of fruits has expanded beyond the traditional uses.
‘Consumers are increasingly looking for products made with clean labels and natural ingredients, and fruits are a popular choice to provide natural sweetness, flavors, and colors,” shares Christine Campbell, category manager of fruits and vegetables, Global Organics. “Fruits are also being incorporated to enhance the nutritional profile on snacks and baked goods, as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Additionally, alternatives sweeteners derived from fruits, such as apple and pear juice concentrate, pear and apple purees, and grape juice purees and concentrates, are being used to provide better carbohydrate intake compared to sugar.'”
New fruit ingredients
Global Organics recently introduced several new products with applications for snack and bakery products. Campbell shares an overview of the products and which applications these new ingredients are best suited for:
- Organic Concord Grape Puree: Concord grape puree is a valuable ingredient due to its natural flavor, intense grape taste, and ability to enhance the overall flavor profile. Its deep purple color adds visual appeal, while its high antioxidant content provides potential health benefits. The natural sugars in the puree help retain moisture, resulting in a softer texture in baked goods. Additionally, the grape puree acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of products. It can be used in muffins, bars, and toppings
- Organic Passion Fruit Puree: Passion fruit puree brings a unique and exotic flavor, with a tangy and slightly sweet note. It provides a natural sweetness, reducing the need for additional sweeteners. Additionally, it contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin C, and is rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, and phosphorous. The juice’s high water content helps retain moisture, resulting in a softer texture and improved shelf life. Examples of where this ingredient can be used include cakes, cupcakes, muffins, quick breads, cookies, fruit bars, fruit snacks, and granola bars
- Organic Guava Puree: Guava has a distinct and tropical flavor that adds a unique taste, providing a refreshing and exotic twist. The natural sweetness of guava reduces the need for additional sweeteners. Guava is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin A), and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium). Additionally, guava puree adds a vibrant pink color to baked goods and snacks, making them visually appealing. The high water content in guava helps retain moisture, resulting in a moist and tender texture. It can be used in pastries, Danishes, muffins, breads, tart or pie fillings, fruit bars, and fruit snacks
