Dried Sweetened Blueberries: Nutritional Profile and Ingredient Information
Dried sweetened blueberries are a flavorful and nutrient-dense addition to various recipes. Whether you’re incorporating them into your morning oatmeal, baking them into muffins, or adding them to salads and smoothies, these berries offer both a delightful sweetness and a wealth of health benefits.
Nutritional Breakdown per 100g Serving
- Energy: 317 kcal
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fats: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 80.0 g
- Sugar: 67.5 g
- Fiber: 7.5 g
- Minerals:
- Calcium: 19.0 mg
- Iron: 0.9 mg
- Magnesium: 18.0 mg
- Phosphorus: 36.0 mg
- Potassium: 214.0 mg
- Sodium: 3.0 mg
- Zinc: 0.49 mg
- Copper: 0.16 mcg
- Manganese: 0.0 mg
- Selenium: 0.6 mcg
Vitamins
- Vitamin C: 23.8 mg
- Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 0.092 mg
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 0.127 mg
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): 1.154 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.152 mg
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 12.0 mcg
- Vitamin B12: 0.0 mcg
- Vitamin A: 7.0 mcg
- Vitamin E: 2.35 mg
- Vitamin D2: 0.0 mcg
Health Benefits
Dried sweetened blueberries are rich in essential nutrients that support overall well-being. With a significant amount of fiber (7.5 g per 100g), they aid in digestion and promote gut health. The high sugar content (67.5 g) makes them an excellent source of quick energy, perfect for a pre-workout snack or a healthy addition to a granola mix.
Additionally, these berries are a good source of Vitamin C (23.8 mg), which plays a crucial role in boosting the immune system and maintaining healthy skin. With moderate levels of minerals such as potassium (214 mg) and magnesium (18 mg), dried sweetened blueberries contribute to cardiovascular health and muscle function.
Culinary Uses
Incorporate dried sweetened blueberries into a variety of dishes for a burst of natural sweetness and texture. Add them to your favorite baked goods, like muffins, cakes, or cookies. You can also use them to elevate the flavor of breakfast cereals, oatmeal, or yogurt. For a quick snack, enjoy them on their own or mix them with nuts for a delicious, energy-packed trail mix.
Allergen Information
Dried sweetened blueberries typically do not contain major allergens like gluten, dairy, or nuts. However, as with all dried fruits, be sure to check the product label for any added ingredients, such as preservatives or other allergens. If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s always wise to verify the product’s full ingredient list.
Dietary Preferences
Dried sweetened blueberries are suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, including:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
- Kosher (if certified)
Conclusion
Dried sweetened blueberries are a versatile and nutritious ingredient, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whether you’re looking to add natural sweetness to your meals or enjoy them as a quick snack, these berries offer a healthy way to indulge your sweet tooth while boosting your nutrient intake. Always be mindful of portion sizes due to their high sugar content, and enjoy the burst of flavor they bring to any dish.
