The drying process
used at Crystals International Inc., Plant City, Fla., produces
powdered fruit ingredients that retain the flavor, color and nutritional
benefits of real fruit. To ensure high quality and consistency,
the company carefully specifies, selects, inspects and QA analyzes
raw materials.
"Unlike alternative
processes, our continuous vacuum freeze-drying system does not rely
on excessive heat to facilitate the removal of water. As a result,
there is very little oxidation and/or degradation of natural juice
attributes," says Steve Hicks, technical services manager.