Apricots “Iris pitted”

Description

1. How it is grown and harvested: Uzbekistan is among the world’s largest producers of apricots, and apricot drying is a centuries-old tradition in the Fergana Valley, Samarkand and the foothill regions. Hot, dry summers with almost no rain during harvest allow the fruit to be dried naturally in the open air, and the large difference between day and night temperatures gives the fruit a high sugar content and a rich aroma. Iris apricots are grown in the sunny orchards of Uzbekistan and harvested by hand at full ripeness, when their colour and sweetness are fully developed. After pitting, the fruit is dried carefully to keep a bright orange colour, a soft and tender texture and a clean, sweet apricot taste. Long summers, cool nights and mountain irrigation water allow the fruit to build up high natural sugar and a balanced flavour. Ripe fruit is picked by hand to avoid bruising and is pitted soon after harvest so that it dries cleanly and evenly.

2. Processing and packaging details: The apricots are cleaned, washed and inspected for stone fragments and defects, then graded by size and colour for uniform, attractive lots. Where colour stabilisation by standard sulphur treatment is used, this is stated on the label. The product is packed in food-grade liners inside export cartons to keep it soft and fresh. The product is offered in two calibres: Size 1 (large, select fruit) and Size 4 (smaller fruit, an economical choice for processing, baking and compotes). Store dried apricots in a cool, dry place (ideally 5–15 °C, relative humidity below 65%), away from direct sunlight. Cold storage helps preserve colour and softness for longer. Under proper conditions the product keeps its quality for 12 months or more. Each lot can be supplied with export documentation, including a phytosanitary certificate and certificate of origin, on request.

3. Health benefits and nutrition: Iris apricots are an excellent source of potassium and beta-carotene and also provide iron, magnesium, dietary fibre and natural sugars for energy. They are a healthy, convenient alternative to sweets. Sulphured versions contain sulphites. Their soft texture makes Iris apricots pleasant for all ages, including children and older people. They are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, and they combine beautifully with nuts in healthy snack mixes. With their appealing look and soft texture, Iris apricots are a strong choice for supermarket retail packs, snack products, gift boxes, baking, desserts and breakfast dishes.

Typical values. Sun-dried, no added sugar or colourants. Contains sulphites.