Description
Sun‑dried fruit leathers are flexible sheets of fruit puree dehydrated by solar heat and low humidity, concentrating sugars and pectin into a low‑water‑activity product.
Technical
During solar drying, water evaporates from the fruit puree, lowering the water activity (a_w) below 0.6 and inhibiting microbial growth. The high sugar concentration (~55 % w/w) and pectin form a gel matrix that stabilises the sheet and prevents sucrose crystallisation. Optional ghee coating creates a lipid barrier that limits oxidation and extends shelf life.
Science
Primary Reaction
evaporation of water from fruit puree under solar radiation
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
sweetfruitycarameliseddried fruithoneyedfloralslightly fermented
Origin & History
Civilization