Natural Dried Apricots

General Information

• What are sun-dried apricots? It's a dried fruit with a unique sweetness and softness, obtained by naturally drying fresh apricots in the sun. No sulphurization is used during the process, so it's darker in color (brown-orange tones) than other dried apricots.
• What are the nutritional values of sun-dried apricots? It is rich in fiber, potassium, iron, vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin E and various antioxidants. It contains natural sugar.
• How many calories are in sun-dried apricots? Approximately 30 grams (2-3 pieces) of sun-dried apricots contain 70-80 calories. This value may vary depending on the size of the apricot.

Benefits

• What are the benefits of sun-dried apricots?
  • Digestive system health: Thanks to its high fiber content, it prevents constipation and regulates bowel movements.
  • Eye health: Beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A) content protects eye health and helps prevent night blindness.
  • Heart health: Its potassium content helps balance blood pressure and supports heart health.
  • Bone health: The minerals it contains contribute to bone health.
  • It gives energy: Its natural sugar content provides quick energy.
  • It is a source of antioxidants: The antioxidants it contains help prevent cell damage.
  • It may be good for iron deficiency: Its iron content can be supportive against anemia.
  • Skin health: Vitamins A and E support skin health.
• Are sun-dried apricots more beneficial than other dried apricots? Because it's not sulfurized, some consider it more natural and healthier. Its antioxidant content may be higher than that of sulfurized apricots, but their nutritional values are generally similar.

Consumption

• How to consume sun-dried apricots?
  • Directly as a snack.
  • It can be added to breakfast foods (oatmeal, yogurt, etc.).
  • It can be added to salads.
  • It can be used in desserts (compote, cake, cookies, etc.).
  • It can be used to add flavor to rice and meat dishes.
  • It can be softened by soaking in water and consumed.
• How many sun-dried apricots should be consumed daily? Consuming two or three servings a day is generally sufficient. Excessive consumption can increase calorie intake due to the natural sugars it contains and may cause digestive problems in some people.
• Do sun-dried apricots make you gain weight? It won't cause weight gain if portion control is followed. Its fiber content can help with weight management by making you feel full. However, due to its high sugar content, excessive consumption should be avoided.

Storage

• How should sun-dried apricots be stored? It should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place. Storing it in the refrigerator prolongs its life and prevents it from getting damp.

Cautions and Hazards

• Are there any harms to sun-dried apricots? Excessive consumption can raise blood sugar due to the natural sugar it contains. It may cause bloating or gas in some people.
• Can diabetic patients consume sun-dried apricots? Yes, but because of the natural sugar content, it is important to pay attention to portion control and consult their doctor.
• Can pregnant women consume sun-dried apricots? Although there is no known harm, it is still important not to overdo it and to consult their doctor.
• Do sun-dried apricots cause allergies? In rare cases, it may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to apricots.