Berries are delicious, especially in their peak season: summer. Yet processors can capture that summertime taste all year long with summer berry ingredients from Van Drunen Farms (VDF).

Berries might be small but they definitely pack a punch of sweet and tart flavor. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and boysenberries all carry distinct flavor profiles and blend well with one another and a variety of other fruits. 

Of course, another notable characteristic of berries is their appetizing, bright color. And, don’t forget their great nutritional profiles. Strawberries, for instance, offer a good amount of vitamin C; while blueberries are high in antioxidants. Experts agree that berries are a great part of a healthy lifestyle, and may promote heart and cognitive health.

One problem with fresh summer berries, however, is that they spoil quickly. This is where Van Drunen Farms comes into play. VDF offers Freeze-dried Blueberry, Strawberry, Raspberry, Blackberry and Boysenberry in various dices, slices, powders and granules, depending on the product.

When piece identity is unimportant, an economical choice like Drum-dried Blueberry, Strawberry, Raspberry or Blackberry may be used, and are available in flake or powder forms. Many of VDF's Freeze-dried and Drum-dried products are offered organic or conventional, while all are certified kosher.

Additionally, when a bit of sweetness is desired, Low-moisture Blueberry is a great product to add fruity blueberry flavor. VDF's Summer Berry Ingredients offer a longer shelf life and easy handling and storage. These processes also allow for the product to retain much of their original color and flavor.

With VDF's many processes and products, application ideas truly are endless. Large freeze-dried pieces or Low-moisture Blueberries may be used as stand-alone snacks, or used in oatmeal and cereals, trail mixes, baked goods, cheesecakes, and frozen desserts, among other dishes. Drum-dried and Freeze-dried Berry Powders are ideal for flavoring shakes and smoothies, ice creams, custards, yogurts, batters, candies, and blended cocktails, or for use in nutritional supplements. Pairing well with so many flavors, berries also work well on the savory side, and may be used in chutneys, sauces, spreads, dips and much more.

Van Drunen Farms is a family-owned company located in the fertile farmland of the Midwest. VDF manufactures an extensive line of all-natural, conventional and organic, whole-food fruit, vegetable and herb ingredients. Customization is a specialty.

— Van Drunen Farms, www.vandrunen.com