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Dehydration is one of the oldest methods of preserving food. While our ancestors relied on the sun to dry food, today we have commercial equipment and home appliances that can remove bacteria-forming moisture. This process preserves food for much longer than its ordinary shelf life. Dehydrated foods keep their nutritional value. As a lightweight, nutrient-dense option, dehydrated foods are a go-to for hikers and travelers looking to save space. You can dehydrate your own fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even meat in an oven or specialty food dehydrator. Many dehydrated foods are available in stores as well, though watch out for added ingredients like sodium, sugar, or oils.
Nutrition Information The dehydrating process retains a food’s original nutritional value. However, because dried food loses its water content, it’s usually smaller in size and has more calories by weight. Keep your portions of dehydrated foods smaller than what’s recommended for the unprocessed food to avoid overeating. Dehydrated foods also maintain their nutrients for much longer than their fresh counterparts. Potential Health Benefits of Dehydrated Food Dehydrating food can save you money, reduce food waste, and speed up your cooking. You can also add seasoning or spices to food as you dry it, stocking your kitchen with healthy, easily portable snacks. Studies show that dehydration increases the fiber content in fruits and vegetables.
