What is the Best Iranian Raisin?
What types of raisins does Iran produce and export? In this post, prepared by the Tari Trading Group, we will introduce you to the best types of Iranian export raisins and highlight some of their differences.
What is Iranian Raisin?
Before we start the article, let’s clarify a few basic things.
Raisins are essentially grapes that have been dried using different methods.
Iranian raisins are the same but are known for their high quality and relatively strong global demand.
To better understand, Iran is among the top three largest producers and exporters of raisins.
We recommend reading the article The Largest Raisins Exporters to learn more about the leading raisin-exporting countries.
What are the Different Methods of Producing Raisins?
Raisins are generally produced using several methods, including:
- Sun-Dried Raisins
- Shade-Dried Raisins
- Acid-Dipped Raisins
How are Sun-Dried Raisins Made?
Once the grapes are fully ripened and matured, they are left under direct sunlight for about 30 to 40 days. This natural drying process results in sun-dried raisins.
What are Shade-Dried Raisins and How Are They Produced?
After harvesting, the grapes are transferred to a covered space, away from sunlight. The grape clusters are usually either hung up or spread on metal grids. Over approximately 30 to 40 days, they gradually dry, becoming shade-dried raisins.
What are Acid-Dipped Raisins, and How Are They Made?
In this process, grapes are dipped into a solution containing calcium carbonate or potassium carbonate and a small amount of edible oil. This method produces what is known as acid-dipped raisins.
Why is This Method Used?
The acid-dipped method helps the grapes retain their color during the drying process. More importantly, it significantly reduces the drying time compared to sun-drying and shade-drying methods.
Which Raisins Are Made Using the Acid-Dipped Method?
Typically, raisins such as Golden Raisins, some types of Sultanas, and a few other varieties are produced using this method.
If grapes are dipped in a calcium carbonate, potassium carbonate, or edible oil solution before drying, they can then be dried either under the sun (sun-dried) or in the shade (shade-dried), producing slightly different characteristics.
Some raisins, like Golden Raisins, are also exposed to sulfur dioxide smoke after being dipped in an acidic solution.
Types of Iranian Raisins
Iran produces a wide variety of raisins for export. The most exported Iranian raisins include:
- Golden Raisins
- Sultana Raisins
- Black Raisins (Maviz)
- Kashmari (Long) Raisins
Iranian Golden Raisins
Golden Raisins are particularly popular in Asia, especially in countries like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Russia, and Ukraine, among others.
Their golden color comes from the acidic solution and edible oil applied before drying, as well as the sulfur dioxide gas exposure, which enhances the golden shade.
Iranian Sultana Raisins
These raisins are typically made from seedless grapes and are generally brown, though they can sometimes be yellow.
The production process of Sultanas also involves dipping in an acid solution before drying them under direct sunlight.
Sultana raisins are categorized into two types:
During packaging, depending on customer requests, some Sultanas undergo additional sulfur dioxide fumigation after being washed.
Black Raisins (Maviz)
This variety, produced in Iran, is dark black or sometimes deep brown. It is usually made from Shahani grapes.
Black Raisins are widely popular worldwide and are commonly used in baked goods and desserts. They are also a great snack due to their numerous health benefits.
Iranian Kashmari Raisins
Kashmari Raisins are long in shape, which is why they are also called Long Raisins.
They come in green, light brown, dark brown, and even yellow colors. The elongated shape is due to the specific grape variety used for drying.
