FRESNO – “The story of California Raisins can be traced to the late 1800s when growers in the San Joaquin Valley began experimenting with drying grapes as a way to preserve their harvest. The first commercially successful raisin production was established in Fresno in 1873, and by the turn of the century, California was the largest producer of raisins in the world. Throughout the 20th century, California Raisins became an iconic symbol of the state’s agricultural heritage. In the 1980s, the California Raisins even became the stars of a popular animated television series, further cementing their place in American culture.”
“Fresno is widely recognized as the ‘Raisin Capital of the World’ due to its significant role in raisin production and its ideal climate for growing grapes, which are then dried into raisins. On approximately 100,000 acres, over 1,500 California Raisin growers produce 100% of the U.S. raisins in an area within a 60-mile radius of Fresno – known as the central San Joaquin Valley. Two-thirds of the U.S. raisin production is consumed in the U.S. and Canada, while one-third is exported to nearly 50 countries with Asia and Europe being the top two export markets.”
“California Raisins are inspected under the most rigid standards by both plant quality control technicians and USDA inspectors throughout the packaging process, thus assuring that California Raisins are the cleanest, highest quality in the world. After final inspections, raisins are automatically weighed and packed in a variety of bulk industrial and convenient retail sizes. California Raisins are then shipped throughout North America and the world for consumers to enjoy. Part of the crop is used to make raisin juice concentrate (a minimum of 70 percent natural fruit soluble solids) and raisin paste (made from 100 percent raisins), which are added to a variety of foods, including dairy, confectionery and bakery items.”
“California Raisins are 100% fruit and this little fruit has many benefits that help to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Raisins are enjoyed worldwide and are a staple ingredient in many cuisines. They are not only used in sweet dishes like desserts and baked goods but also find their way into savory recipes, adding a unique depth of flavor. Raisins are frequently incorporated into fragrant rice dishes like pilafs (or pilav), biryani, and couscous. They add a bright contrast to earthy spices like cumin, cinnamon, and saffron.”
The history and origins of raisins have shaped their significance in culinary traditions, making them a very versatile and beloved ingredient in cooking, like in these delicious No Bake Chocolate, Tahini, Oat and California Raisin Bars. And don’t forget the chocolate drizzle.”
