Process
What Is Freeze-Dry?
Freeze-drying is a vacuum technology that removes the water in fruit by turning it directly into vapor while frozen, preserving nutritional value and aroma at a far higher rate than heat-based methods.
A Three-Stage Process
The Journey From Frozen to Table
Stage 01
Flash Freezing
Fruit harvested at full ripeness is frozen very quickly to temperatures of −35°C and below to protect its cell structure. Rapid freezing prevents the formation of large ice crystals, preserving the fruit’s tissue integrity.
Stage 02
Primary Drying (Sublimation)
The frozen fruit is placed in a high-vacuum environment. Under precisely controlled low pressure and heat, the frozen water turns directly into vapor without passing through a liquid state — this process is called sublimation. Most of the water is removed at this stage.
Stage 03
Secondary Drying
The temperature is raised gradually and in a controlled manner to remove the last moisture molecules bound to the fruit’s structure. By the end of this stage the moisture level drops to 1–3% and the product becomes ready for long-term storage.
Stage 04
Hygienic Packaging
The dried fruit is packaged in a sterile environment to minimize contact with moisture and oxygen. This way, aroma, color and nutritional value are preserved throughout the shelf life.
Comparison
Freeze-Dry vs. Traditional Drying
| Freeze-Dry | Traditional Drying | |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrient Retention | ~97% | ~40–60% |
| Color & Appearance | Natural, vivid | Darkening, fading |
| Aroma | Largely preserved | Notable loss |
| Texture | Light, crispy | Hard, shrunken |
| Shelf Life | Long | Medium |
Frequently Asked Questions
Things You Might Wonder
Because the moisture level is reduced to 1–3% and the product is packaged airtight, Donsun products retain their freshness and aroma for a long time at room temperature in their unopened packaging.
No. All Donsun products consist of 100% natural fruit; they contain no added sugar, preservatives or artificial flavors.
No. While traditional drying uses heat, in freeze-drying the fruit is first frozen and then its water is removed by turning it directly into vapor in a vacuum (sublimation). This preserves nutritional value, color and aroma at a much higher rate.
The products can be eaten directly as a snack; they can also be added to muesli, yogurt, desserts and beverages.
After opening the package, it should be sealed tightly to prevent the product from absorbing moisture, and stored in a cool, dry place.
Discover this difference in our products
Explore the difference freeze-dry technology offers in Donsun’s fruit collection, or request a tailored offer for your brand.