Raisins are considered nature’s original candy — bursting with nutritional goodness and packed with natural sugars.
Their wholesome and pleasant saccharine flavor comes from fructose, or fruit sugar. Fructose is easily digested into energy, which explains why raisins are a great snack for those who engage in strenuous or hectic activities.
Raisins are also low in sodium and contain potassium which lowers blood pressure and may reduce the risk of stroke.
Raisins also contain a compound called phytochemical which works with dietary fiber (also present in raisins) and other nutrients to fight diseases such as cancer, cataracts, osteoporosis and urinary tract infections. Heart diseases can also be prevented with the intake of this compound.
Best of all, chemical preservatives are not needed to keep raisins fresh due to their high sugar content. Keeping them refrigerated can prolong the shelf life of raisins. They can retain their flavor, nutrients and color for more than a year.
Store raisins in an airtight container to keep them fresh, as humidity can cause the fructose to crystallize on the skin. Don’t put them against brick or concrete walls as these materials can absorb moisture. This, in turn, can affect the quality of raisins.