Rosehip

Description

1. How it is grown and harvested: Central Asia’s dry, sunny climate has made drying the natural way to preserve fruit and berries for the winter for centuries. Low humidity and steady sunshine allow fruit to dry evenly and keep well, and many of these traditional products are still made using methods passed down through generations of farming families. Rosehips are the fruit of the wild rose, gathered in the mountain and foothill areas of Central Asia. The bright red berries are picked by hand in autumn when fully ripe and then dried carefully at moderate temperatures to preserve their colour and valuable natural compounds. The wild rose grows widely on mountain slopes, along rivers and on the edges of fields in Central Asia, where it is collected by hand in its natural habitat. The berries ripen in autumn and are picked when they turn deep orange-red. Careful drying at moderate temperatures helps preserve their colour, aroma and valuable nutrients.

2. Processing and packaging details: The dried rosehips are cleaned of stems, leaves and debris and sorted to remove damaged or discoloured berries and foreign matter. They are packed in food-grade liners inside export cartons that protect them from moisture and light. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight and strong odours, in closed packaging. 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: Rosehip is traditionally valued as one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. It also contains carotenoids, flavonoids and other antioxidants. Rosehip tea is a popular caffeine-free drink, especially in autumn and winter. Rosehips are mainly used to make teas, infusions, syrups and compotes. Simply pour boiling water over the berries (crushed or whole) and leave to infuse. They are also used by tea blenders and producers of herbal and functional drinks. For the best result, use water just off the boil and let it infuse in a closed thermos for several hours.

Estimated typical values for dried rose hips. Sun-dried, no added sugar or colourants.