Convenience and Health Foods

CONVENIENCE AND HEALTH FOODS 3 (1+2)

Lesson 10 : Fruit And Vegetable Based Convenience Foods

Intermediate moisture (IM) fruits

Meaning:

1. IM fruits are those which are partially dehydrated and stabilized using additives to final moisture content of 25-50 percent.
2. The technique is based on moist infusion of fruit slices in solution, humectants and preservatives by osmosis.
3. The slices of fruits such as mango, pineapple, papaya and banana are preserved in ready to eat form with a shelf life of 6-12 months at ambient temperature in flexible laminated pouches.

Advantages of IM fruits:

1. Ready to eat, moist mouth feel and soft consistency without the need for rehydration.
2. Can be stored well at room temperature.
3. Increased nutrient content as compared to fresh and canned fruits.
4. Less energy intensive.