Chaucer Foods launches freeze-dried fruit for foodservice sector

Chaucer Foods has released a new line of freeze-dried fruit for the foodservice sector to meet a demand for natural ingredients.

The range consists of six freeze-dried fruit pieces, slices or granules – strawberry, orange, raspberry, lime, pineapple and banana – and seven powders: strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, banana, mango, lime and orange.

The products can be used as decoration, toppings, inclusions or ingredients in a range of food, including baked goods, desserts and sweet treats, as well as salads, sandwiches and savoury bakes. They are also suitable for beverages such as smoothies, shakes, teas and infusions, hot chocolate, cocktails and mocktails.

Chaucer said the products are “a great way to meet the challenge of how to offer new eating and drinking experiences, in new formats, whilst at the same time improving nutrition and controlling costs”.

“Freeze-dried fruit retains its bright, natural colour, shape and original flavour,” said Eric Quirin, sales director, EMEA, for Chaucer. “It also holds on to more nutrients than traditionally dried ingredients and is 100% natural, with a crisp and crunchy texture. As such, it’s an easy way to add taste, texture, visual appeal and nutritional value to a wide range of food and drink recipes.

“Freeze-dried fruit is also a great option for foodservice outlets because it is pre-prepared, light to handle and easy to store in ambient conditions. No refrigeration is required. It is supplied in easy-to-use, resealable packs, with a naturally long shelf life. It can, therefore, help to reduce food waste and it’s available all year round.”