Raisins

Raisins could be one of the world’s first snack foods. Indeed, historians tell us that people picked grapes more than 3,000 years ago and spread them out in the sun to dry, a process that’s still prevalent to this day. Sun-drying generally occurs in the vineyards in September: clusters of grapes are spread in an even layer on paper trays that lie on the ground in the rows between the vines. During this period, raisin farmers are at the mercy of Mother Nature. If it rains, the entire crop can be lost to mold. If the sun shines, the grapes gradually wither and dehydrate over a period of about 3 weeks. The fruit’s natural sugars concentrate and the grapes turn brown and meaty as they dry in the heat. Despite the marvels of modern technology, no one has yet found a better method of preparing raisins than drying them in the sun.

Spanish missionaries brought grapes to California in the 18th century, and today this state lays claim to producing most of America’s raisin crop, as well as accounting for about half of the world’s supply.

At Earthbound Farm we produce 2 types of raisins: Thompson Seedless and Flame Seedless. Our Thompsons are exceptionally large raisins, moist and plump with a light, mellow flavor. The Flame Seedless are medium-sized, deep red and notably sweet. They have a rich, robust flavor that’s perfect for baking or eating.

How to store raisins

Unopened packages of raisins have a shelf life of several months, but they’ll keep indefinitely in the refrigerator or freezer. Once they’re opened, store your raisins in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. Air is their natural enemy; it will rob your raisins of moisture and prompt sugar crystallization on the fruit’s surface. If your raisins dry out, revitalize them by steaming them over boiling water for a few minutes.

Tips for using raisins

Raisins usually require no advance preparation, although some recipes might recommend plumping them in a small amount of liquid. You can always enjoy raisins on their own as a healthy snack — they’re a concentrated source of natural sugar and nutrients.

To chop raisins, lightly wipe your knife blade with vegetable oil to help prevent the fruit from sticking to it.

A good-for-you treat

Earthbound Farm Organic Raisins contribute over 20 vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients to your diet.

Raisins are among the 50 major food contributors of boron* in the diet — a trace element linked to healthy bones and joints. They're also a rich source of antioxidants that may play a role in reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.* And raisins are concentrated with easily digested natural sugars, making them the perfect snack for an afternoon or pre-workout boost!   

Why choose organic raisins?

Fresh grapes are #3 on the Environmental Working Group's “Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides,” a list of produce that carries the most pesticide residues when grown conventionally. And most conventional dried fruits are fumigated with synthetic chemicals to retard spoilage. So choosing organic raisins is a good idea — especially for children, whose growing bodies are so much more susceptible to environmental chemical exposures than adults’.

At Earthbound Farm, our organic raisins are produced without toxic synthetic chemicals, using sustainable methods that protect the environment and help keep pesticides out of our soil, air, water and food supply. Organic food is the healthiest choice for people and the planet — and we think organic raisins tastes better, too!   

WhatsOnMyFood.org from the Pesticide Action Network shows you searchable results for fruits like raisins and a wide range of other organic and conventional foods. It’s an easy-to-use and empowering tool for learning about pesticide residues and their health effects for all of us.