Dehydrated Bananas / Banana Powder: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood
Bananas, when dehydrated or turned into banana powder, retain most of their essential nutrients, making them a convenient and nutrient-dense ingredient to include in various recipes. Whether you’re using banana powder to boost smoothies, baked goods, or breakfast dishes, it’s an excellent choice for both flavor and nutritional value.
Nutritional Information (per 100g serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 346 kcal |
| Protein | 3.89 g |
| Total Fat | 1.81 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.698 g |
| Carbohydrates | 88.28 g |
| Fiber | 9.9 g |
| Sugar | 47.3 g |
| Calcium | 22.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.15 mg |
| Magnesium | 108 mg |
| Phosphorus | 74.0 mg |
| Potassium | 1491 mg |
| Sodium | 3.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.61 mg |
| Copper | 0.391 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.574 mg |
| Selenium | 3.9 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 7.0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.18 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.24 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.44 mg |
| Folate | 14.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 12.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.39 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information
Dehydrated bananas and banana powder are naturally free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. However, individuals with specific sensitivities to fruits or latex may need to be cautious, as bananas are part of the “latex-fruit syndrome.” Always consult with a healthcare professional if you are uncertain about potential allergic reactions.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegan: Dehydrated bananas and banana powder are plant-based, making them suitable for vegan diets.
- Gluten-Free: Free from gluten, these banana products are perfect for those following a gluten-free lifestyle.
- Non-Dairy: As a naturally dairy-free food, banana powder is ideal for individuals avoiding dairy products.
- High-Fiber: With nearly 10g of fiber per 100g serving, it supports digestive health and can be included in high-fiber diets.
Usage Tips
Dehydrated bananas and banana powder are incredibly versatile. They can be rehydrated with water or juice to make a quick puree for smoothies or baked goods. Alternatively, banana powder can be added to oatmeal, pancakes, or protein shakes to enhance flavor and nutritional content. The concentrated sweetness of banana powder also makes it a great natural sweetener for desserts or energy bars.
For recipes like banana bread, cookies, and granola, substitute some of the sugar with banana powder for an added boost of nutrients. If you enjoy making energy balls or homemade protein bars, incorporating banana powder can help achieve a more cohesive texture while delivering extra potassium and fiber.
Conclusion
Dehydrated bananas and banana powder are nutrient-dense ingredients that provide a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are perfect for boosting the nutritional profile of smoothies, snacks, and baked goods while adding a naturally sweet flavor. Additionally, they are versatile, easily incorporated into various recipes, and suitable for different dietary preferences, from vegan to gluten-free. With their convenient shelf-stable form, dehydrated bananas and banana powder are a must-have pantry staple for anyone looking to elevate their meals and snacks with a healthful, fruity twist.
