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.
- 1. Flash Freezing
- 2. Primary Drying (Sublimation)
- 3. Secondary Drying
- 4. Hygienic Packaging
The Journey From Frozen to Table
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |
How long do freeze-dried fruits last?
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.
Do Donsun products contain added sugar or preservatives?
No. All Donsun products consist of 100% natural fruit; they contain no added sugar, preservatives or artificial flavors.
Are freeze-dried fruits the same as dried fruits?
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.
How are Donsun products consumed?
The products can be eaten directly as a snack; they can also be added to muesli, yogurt, desserts and beverages.
How should they be stored after opening?
After opening the package, it should be sealed tightly to prevent the product from absorbing moisture, and stored in a cool, dry place.
In which forms can freeze-dried fruit be used?
Freeze-dried fruit can be used as slices, cubes or pieces, and can also be milled into powder. Whether for snacks, muesli, chocolate, bakery products or beverages, you can work with our team to determine the right form for your application.
Do you offer private label production for my brand?
Yes. For private label production, we plan product selection, pack sizes and packaging options together according to your brand’s needs. For details, please use the quote form on our contact page.
Can I request samples?
Yes. Simply select “Sample Request” as the topic in the form on our contact page and tell us which products you are interested in and how you plan to use them; our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
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.