Is freeze dried candy healthier? Many people are curious about whether it is healthier to eat freeze dried candy compared to traditional options. It’s a popular question among health enthusiasts and parents of young children alike. With more and more people seeking out alternatives to conventional candy treats, freeze dried candy has become an attractive choice. But is it actually healthier or just another fad snack? We think the following information will help you answer that question for yourself.
Freeze drying is a food preservation process that uses the pressure reduction method to remove frozen water (or ice) from food by sublimation (changing directly from the solid to the gas phase) without letting it thaw. This method maintains the food’s structure, flavor, and nutritional value. Applying this method to candy treats preserves the sweet taste and introduces a crunchier, lighter texture than conventional candy.
There are many different freeze dried candies available on the market, each offering unique flavors and textures.
The real question is: is freeze dried candy healthier than traditional candies? To answer this we must compare the nutritional information of freeze dried candy to that of conventional candy. The key areas to focus on are calories, sugar, and ingredients.
Many freeze dried candy treats contain fewer calories than their conventional counterpart. Because the freeze drying process takes out the water, weight, and volume is decreased which ultimately decreases the number of calories in a serving.
Unlike most freeze dried food, freeze dried candy doesn’t need to be rehydrated, making it convenient for immediate consumption.
Because water (as ice) is sublimated away, sugar is not lost during the freeze drying process. Sugar content is more concentrated in freeze dried candy, resulting in an intensified flavor, but its light and crunchy texture can make it easier to eat less.
The majority of freeze dried candy uses the same ingredients found in conventional candy including any artificial flavors and added sugars. So in reality the nutritional value doesn’t change but you’re able to practice portion control easier due to the light and crunchy texture.
For those who want more control over the ingredients, making your own freeze dried candy at home is a viable option.
Is freeze dried candy healthy for you compared to traditional candy? Here are some possible health benefits:
Due to the more intense flavor and filling crunch, less freeze dried candy may be required to cure your sweet tooth thus reducing the overall sugar and calorie content consumed.
If you take freeze dried fruits as an example of freeze dried candy, many retain more of their nutrient levels than other dried fruits. In other words, you may obtain more vitamins and minerals per serving.
Freeze dried candy has a longer shelf life than conventional candy. Less chances of eating old and stale candy and less food waste.
Freeze dried candy has its benefits but there are also some trade offs:
Freeze dried candy can be priced higher than conventional candy due to the necessity of the freeze drying process. It’s also not as widely available at your local stores.
The freeze drying process requires a lot of energy which may concern the environmentally aware consumer. In addition, the packaging for freeze dried food is usually much heavier to maintain the crunchier, lighter structure which produces more waste.
Despite the possible health benefits, freeze dried candy still contains many of the same artificial flavors, colors, and added sugars as conventional candy. Always be vigilant when reading ingredient labels to avoid unwanted additives.
Is freeze dried candy healthier? We say it depends. Freeze dried candy treats can be a healthier alternative by reducing calorie consumption, having a longer shelf life, and possibly increasing nutrient levels but they still contain many of the same ingredients including added sugars and artificial flavors found in conventional candy.
So is freeze dried candy healthier? It really depends on your goals and what you’re trying to accomplish with your diet. As always, moderation is the key. By selecting quality, minimally processed freeze dried options and only consuming appropriate serving sizes, you can enjoy your favorite sweet treats without sacrificing your health.
If you’re wondering how you can incorporate more freeze dried treats into your weekly menu, try a few options and monitor how they affect your overall diet. As always, consult with your doctor for specific advice.
