Find Raisin Suppliers - Nutrada B2B Food Directory

Raisins are dried grapes that have been a staple in culinary traditions across the globe for centuries. Their sweet, chewy texture and rich, concentrated flavor make them a popular ingredient in baking, snacking, and cooking. Raisins are available in various types, depending on the grape variety used, and can be enjoyed in both savory and sweet dishes. Known for their natural sweetness, raisins also serve as a convenient, nutrient-packed snack.

What are Raisins?

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Raisins

Raisins are made by drying different types of grapes, and the drying process can vary, leading to several different varieties:

Golden Raisins: These raisins are typically made from green grapes and are dried using a special process that retains their light color. Golden raisins are sweet and plump, often used in baked goods and salads.
Regular Raisins: These raisins are made from red or purple grapes and are the most common variety. They are dark brown to black and have a deep, rich flavor. Regular raisins are popular in cookies, cakes, and as a topping for cereals.
Sultanas: Sultanas are a type of raisin made from green seedless grapes, often treated with a mild solution to speed up drying, resulting in a lighter color and sweeter flavor. They are often used in baking and are less wrinkled than other raisins.
Currants: Despite their name, currants are a type of raisin made from a small, seedless variety of black Corinth grapes. They are smaller and have a tart flavor, commonly used in cakes, scones, and other baked goods.
Dried Raisin Paste & Puree: Raisins are also processed into paste and puree, which are used as natural sweeteners in a variety of products, from energy bars to smoothies.

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Harvest Season of Raisins

The harvest season for raisins depends on the grape variety and the region in which they are grown:

United States: In regions like California, the harvest season for grapes (which are later dried to make raisins) typically begins in late summer and continues through early fall, with the drying process occurring shortly after the grapes are harvested.
Turkey & Greece: These countries are significant producers of raisins, particularly for sultanas and currants. The harvest season can vary but typically occurs during late summer to early fall.
Argentina: Argentina, another major raisin producer, has a harvest season that peaks in February to March, as grapes are picked and dried during the warm months.

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Producing Countries

Global Production: The United States (specifically California) is the largest producer of raisins, followed by Turkey and Iran. In 2020, global raisin production was estimated at around 1.1 million metric tons. Raisins are grown in numerous regions around the world, where the climate is warm and dry, allowing grapes to be naturally dried. The leading raisin-producing countries include:

United States: California is by far the largest producer of raisins, especially the dark, seedless varieties. California produces approximately 40% of the world’s raisins.
Turkey: A major exporter of raisins, Turkey specializes in producing sultanas and dried currants, which are exported globally, particularly to Europe and the Middle East.
Iran: Iran is another significant producer, known for its high-quality raisins, especially the large, dark raisins.
Greece: Greece is famous for both raisins and currants, particularly from regions like Corinth, which are well-known for their smaller, tart currants.
Argentina: Argentina also produces a substantial amount of raisins, primarily in the Mendoza and San Juan regions.

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Trends & History

The history of raisins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where dried grapes were prized for their long shelf life and ability to preserve nutrients. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valued raisins for both their sweetness and their energy-boosting properties. Raisins were used in various ways, from a simple snack to a preserved ingredient in wine production.

In modern times, the global demand for raisins has been driven by the growing interest in healthy snacking and natural sweeteners. Raisins are now commonly used in a variety of food products, from breakfast cereals and granola bars to baked goods and snack mixes. Additionally, raisins have become a popular ingredient in health-conscious markets due to their natural sweetness and high fiber content.

The wholesale raisin market has expanded significantly, particularly in countries like the United States, Turkey, and Iran, which are major exporters. The rise in the popularity of dried fruits in global markets has spurred increased demand for raisins, and suppliers have adapted by offering a wider variety of raisin products, including organic and non-GMO options.

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Raisin Wholesale

If you're looking to source high-quality raisins for your business, Nutrada offers a reliable platform to connect with leading raisin suppliers from key production regions like California, Turkey, and Greece. Whether you need bulk raisins for baking, dried currants for retail, or sultanas for specialty products, Nutrada helps you find reputable wholesalers offering competitive prices and top-quality dried fruit. Create an account today to access a network of trusted raisin suppliers and streamline your sourcing process.

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