Regional fruits are true treasures of Brazilian biodiversity, carrying unique flavors and special nutritional properties. However, bringing these ingredients to consumers across different regions of the country can be a real challenge.

Fortunately, food processing technology allows these fruits to reach the tables of those who have never visited the Amazon or the Northeast, without losing flavor or nutritional value  Let’s explore how to preserve these characteristics in products like powdered juices, jams, yogurts, and other delicious options.

 

The challenge of maintaining the flavor of regional fruits

Typical fruits like cajá, cupuaçu, acai, and soursop are highly perishable and not always easy to transport in their natural form.

The food industry’s main challenge, in this case, is to ensure that the flavor and nutrients of these fruits are preserved throughout production and distribution.

 

Processing and preservation: how does it work?

Food technology offers different alternatives to preserve the flavor and nutritional properties of regional fruits, allowing them to reach various parts of Brazil. Some of these techniques include:

• Freeze-drying: a process that dehydrates fruit through freezing, better preserving flavor and nutrients.
• Spray Drying: turns fruit juices into powder, making them easier to store and transport.
• Pasteurization: a heat treatment that ensures food safety in products like ready-to-drink juices and jams.
• Natural preservation: use of natural antioxidants to prevent degradation of flavor and color.

 

Key products using regional fruits

Innovation in the food sector allows fruits from the Amazon and other regions to increasingly be part of consumers’ daily diets. Here are some examples of products incorporating these authentic flavors:

• Powdered and ready-to-drink juices
  Juices made with regional fruits offer a practical way to experience new flavors without compromising nutritional value. Spray drying technology allows fruits to be turned into soluble powders that are easy to store and prepare.
• Homemade jams and sweets
  Jams and sweets made with fruits like cupuaçu and cajá are a traditional way of preserving flavor. Combining sugar and controlled cooking methods, these products maintain the authenticity of regional fruits for longer.
• Yogurts and dairy drinks
  Fruit powders are also used to flavor yogurts and dairy drinks. This is a great option for those who want to diversify their diet with natural ingredients, without depending on fresh fruits that are hard to find outside their native regions.
• Desserts and snacks
  Gelatins, cereal bars, and even ice creams are incorporating regional fruits into their recipes. Using extracts and dehydrated pulps ensures that flavor and nutritional benefits are enjoyed in a practical way.

 

A unique opportunity for brands

Investing in products with regional fruits is a great strategy for brands that want to offer new experiences to consumers and tap into the natural foods market.

In addition to adding value to products, this approach promotes the appreciation of Brazilian biodiversity and local economies.

 

4 tips for brands exploring this market

Here are 4 important tips for brands looking to invest in regional fruit products:

1. Choose reliable suppliers: ensure that fruits are high quality and sustainably harvested.
2. Invest in preservation technology: techniques like freeze-drying and spray drying preserve flavor and extend shelf life.
3. Educate the consumer: share the story behind the fruits used to spark curiosity and interest in their origin.
4. Highlight nutritional benefits: regional fruits offer a range of vitamins and antioxidants that can be a strong differentiator in the healthy food market.

 

Fruit powders: bringing the Amazon closer to consumers

Preserving the flavor of regional fruits in industrialized products is a challenge that can be overcome with technology and innovation.

At Frootiva® Co, our spray drying process removes water from fruits and plants while preserving their flavor, nutrients, and natural color.

In addition to fruit powders and dry extracts, the Frootiva® Co portfolio also includes vegetable powders and fruit nibs.

Want to learn more about our products? Contact us at +55 11 4765-0732 or fill out the form on our website.