It may be hard to believe that a small cube weighing only 2 grams is packed with the goodness of fruits and plants. However, this cube is the result of technology that we are proud to deliver. We asked Alexandra Cruy, R&D team leader of waterdrop®, about the manufacturing process of the cubes and what kind of fruit ingredients are included.
What is the difference between fruit powders, fruit extracts and fruit aromas?
Fruit powder, fruit extract and fruit aroma are all products derived from fruit, but they all have different characteristics and different effects. Fruit powder and fruit extract are made by processing fruit to concentrate the flavor, color and nutritional value of the fruit, which are small but powerful. On the other hand, natural fruit aroma is the concentrated volatile compounds that give it its unique smell and flavor. These are the main differences between the three types.
What is the difference between products using fruit powders, fruit extracts and fruit aromas?
Firstly, it is important to note that they each have different characteristics. Fruit powders are often used to make fruit purees or juices or are added to food and beverages as flavourings, whereas fruit extracts are often used as natural colours and flavours or in dietary supplements. Fruit aromas, on the other hand, are usually used in food and beverages as a natural, rather than synthetic flavouring. They are usually added in small amounts to enhance the flavour but do not have any effect on colour or nutritional value.
Our products mainly use fruit powders and fruit extracts. For example, if you want to add a natural color to your drink, you can use brightly colored fruit extracts such as blackcurrant. If you want to bring out the flavor of the ingredients, you can use fruit powders.
It also depends on what flavor you want to extract from the fruit. Some fruits, such as citrus fruits, have flavor concentrated in the oils of the fruit, called essential oils, so you can't just extract that flavor and turn it into a fruit powder. As you can imagine, there's a lot that goes into our research and development process, but Christoph explained that in detail so I won't go into too much detail here (click to watch " Behind the Flavour" with CDO Christoph Hermann)
How are the raw materials processed to turn them into fruit powders, fruit extracts, etc.?
There are several methods for producing fruit powders and extracts, the most common of which include spray drying, freeze drying and dehydration.
In spray drying, fruit juice or puree is broken into tiny droplets that are then exposed to hot air to evaporate the water and create a dry powder. In freeze drying, the fruit is first frozen and then sublimated, which turns the ice directly into a gas without going through a liquid state, removing the water. This process preserves the color, flavor and nutritional value. The result is a dry, lightweight fruit powder that quickly reverts to its original state when water is added.
Dehydration is a simpler method in which sliced or chopped fruit is placed over low heat until most of the water has evaporated. The dehydrated fruit is then crushed into a powder or further processed to produce an extract.
Are there any advantages to fruit powders and fruit extracts over real fruit?
Fruit powders and fruit extracts have some advantages over fresh fruit, but they are no substitute for a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods. The great thing about fruit powders and extracts is that they are convenient and easy to use. Simply add them to smoothies, baked goods, and other recipes to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dishes. They are also lightweight and shelf stable, making them a great choice for travelers and busy people. Fruit powders and fruit extracts contain certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, in higher amounts than fresh fruit.
It's a great choice for those who want to increase their nutrient intake without eating a ton of fruit.
If fruit is turned into a powder or extract, will the nutrients and flavor be preserved?
It depends on the type of fruit, the processing method and the storage conditions. Generally, some nutrients are lost during processing, but the product is still rich in valuable vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The taste of the fruit can also be affected by processing and some flavor may be lost. However, with proper processing and storage methods, the flavor of the final fruit powder/extract can be made closer to the original taste and our beverages (micro-drinks, micro-energy) can be as close to the real thing as possible.
Our new range of micro drinks have been developed with the community in mind and with even more flavour, we're sure you'll be pleased with them. Give them a try!
