Raisins “Sultana Abjush” (size 4)

Description

1. How it is grown and harvested: Uzbekistan is one of the world’s oldest grape-growing regions, and raisin making has been practised here for more than a thousand years. Dry air, little rainfall during the harvest season and long hours of sunshine allow grapes to be dried naturally with minimal risk of spoilage, which gives Uzbek raisins their reputation for clean, intense flavour. Sultana Abjush is made from seedless grapes grown in Uzbekistan’s irrigated vineyards and hand-harvested at full ripeness. “Abjush” refers to a traditional Central Asian method in which the fresh grapes are briefly dipped in a hot natural solution before drying. This short treatment softens the skin so that moisture escapes faster and more evenly, giving the raisins a soft texture, a glossy surface and a beautiful golden-brown colour, while shortening drying time and helping keep the fruit clean. The method has been used in the region for generations and gives a raisin that is noticeably softer and shinier than ordinary sun-dried sultanas.

2. Processing and packaging details: After drying, the raisins are de-stemmed, cleaned, washed and sorted by size and colour, with defective berries and foreign particles removed. Sultana Abjush is offered in Size 1 and Size 4 calibres. It is packed in food-grade polyethylene liners inside export cartons that keep it soft, clean and protected from moisture throughout the supply chain. Store raisins in a cool, dry place (ideally 5–15 °C, relative humidity below 65%), away from direct sunlight and strong odours. Under these conditions the product keeps its quality for 12 months or more. Natural sugar crystallisation on the surface over time is normal and does not affect quality. Each lot can be supplied with export documentation, including a phytosanitary certificate and certificate of origin, on request.

3. Health benefits and nutrition: Like all raisins, Sultana Abjush supplies quick natural energy from fruit sugars, dietary fibre for digestive comfort, and essential minerals such as potassium, iron and magnesium. Grape polyphenols contribute antioxidant activity. It is a wholesome, naturally sweet snack suitable for children and adults alike. Its soft texture makes it pleasant for children and older people, and it is naturally free of fat and cholesterol. Its softness and attractive colour make Sultana Abjush a strong choice for bakery and confectionery, breakfast cereals, yoghurt and dessert toppings, compotes and rice dishes. It also performs well in retail packs and in mixes with nuts.

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