Ingredient Overview: Papaya in Heavy Syrup (Drained)
Papaya in heavy syrup, once drained, is a delightful fruit ingredient that offers a balance of natural sweetness and nutritional value. It is a popular choice in desserts, fruit salads, and tropical-inspired recipes. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of its nutritional composition and benefits.
Nutritional Information (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Energy (kcal) | 206.0 | A rich source of energy, mainly derived from natural fruit sugars. |
| Protein (g) | 0.14 | Minimal protein content, as expected from a fruit product. |
| Total Fat (g) | 0.55 | Very low fat, making it suitable for low-fat diets. |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 0.268 | Contains a trace amount of saturated fats. |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 55.83 | A high carbohydrate content, primarily due to natural sugars and syrup. |
| Dietary Fiber (g) | 1.5 | Provides moderate fiber, aiding digestion and gut health. |
| Sugars (g) | 52.2 | High natural sugar content, typical of canned fruits in syrup. |
| Calcium (mg) | 21.0 | Contributes to bone health and proper muscle function. |
| Iron (mg) | 0.29 | Provides a small boost to daily iron intake. |
| Magnesium (mg) | 6.0 | Important for energy production and nerve function. |
| Phosphorus (mg) | 6.0 | Supports bone and teeth health. |
| Potassium (mg) | 67.0 | Helps regulate fluid balance and supports heart health. |
| Sodium (mg) | 9.0 | Contains minimal sodium, making it heart-friendly. |
| Zinc (mg) | 0.05 | A trace mineral that supports immune function. |
| Copper (mg) | 0.01 | Essential for iron metabolism and connective tissue formation. |
| Manganese (mg) | 0.01 | Aids in bone formation and metabolism. |
| Selenium (mcg) | 0.4 | Acts as an antioxidant, though present in minimal amounts. |
| Vitamin C (mg) | 3.5 | A modest source of antioxidants that boost immunity and skin health. |
| Thiamin (mg) | 0.015 | Also known as Vitamin B1, supports energy metabolism. |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 0.015 | Vitamin B2, contributing to energy production and cellular function. |
| Niacin (mg) | 0.06 | Vitamin B3, playing a role in energy metabolism and skin health. |
| Vitamin B6 (mg) | 0.015 | Supports brain health and red blood cell production. |
| Folate (mcg) | 0.0 | Not a significant source of folate. |
| Vitamin B12 (mcg) | 0.0 | Lacks Vitamin B12, as expected from plant-based foods. |
| Vitamin A (mcg) | 0.0 | Does not contribute to Vitamin A intake. |
| Vitamin E (mg) | 0.0 | Not a source of Vitamin E. |
| Vitamin D2 (mcg) | 0.0 | No Vitamin D2 present in this product. |
Allergen Information
Papaya in heavy syrup is typically free from common allergens like gluten, nuts, dairy, soy, and eggs. However, it is essential to check the packaging for any cross-contamination warnings or additional processing information if you have specific allergies.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for plant-based diets, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.
- Low-Fat Diets: Naturally low in fat, making it an excellent option for those monitoring fat intake.
- Gluten-Free: Safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Low Sodium: Contains minimal sodium, ideal for heart-conscious diets.
Usage Tips and Advice
- Serving Suggestions: Use papaya in drained form to create fruit salads, smoothies, desserts, or as a topping for pancakes and yogurts.
- Storage: Once opened, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within a few days to maintain freshness.
- Recipe Pairings: Combine with other tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or coconut for a refreshing and flavorful blend.
Conclusion
Drained papaya in heavy syrup is a versatile, naturally sweet, and nutritious ingredient that fits seamlessly into a variety of recipes. Its low-fat content, paired with a rich carbohydrate profile, makes it a quick energy source while remaining heart-healthy and vegan-friendly. Whether you’re creating a tropical dessert or adding a burst of flavor to your morning meal, this ingredient offers endless culinary possibilities.
