Dried Strawberries | Sweetened

Sold in 14 oz., 2 lb. and 4 lb. Options in Re-Sealable bags.

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Ingredients: Whole Strawberries, Pure Cane Sugar.

Ingredient Country of Origin: Turkey and/or United States.

Allergen Declaration Statement: Free from; Gluten, Wheat, Legume Family {Peanuts, Soy beans, lentils, chickpeas, and lupin, beans (kidney, black, pinto, navy, string, fava), and peas (green, split, black-eyed), plus others like mung beans, adzuki, and tamarind}, Tree Nuts {almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts, brazil nuts, pine nuts, & coconut}, Shellfish aquatic invertebrates (crab, lobster, shrimp, prawns, crayfish), Crustaceans mollusks (clams, mussels, oysters, scallops, squid, octopus, snails), Fish {vertebrates having a backbone} , Sesame, Milk/Dairy, Eggs, Mustard, Sulfur Dioxide, Potassium Sorbate.

Packaging Procedure: Hand Packaged on dedicated Gerbs equipment Johnston, RI.

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Introducing Gerbs Summer Sweetened Whole Dried Strawberries

OVERVIEW OF GERBS DRIED STRAWBERRIES

Strawberries are sweet, red, aggregate accessory fruits from the rose family, known for their distinctive seeds on the outside, juicy texture, and aroma, enjoyed fresh or in desserts, and packed with Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Botanically, they aren’t true berries but develop from a single flower with multiple ovaries, with each “seed” being a tiny fruit (achene) containing its own seed, all attached to a fleshy receptacle.

Strawberry cultivation involves planting in well-drained soil with full sun, consistent watering, and good fertilization, often using runners or bare roots in raised beds or plastic mulch, while drying uses methods like low-heat oven or food dehydrator (130-140°F) for traditional drying, or freeze-drying for preserving structure, involving slicing, capping, and drying until pliable/leathery, removing most moisture for long-term storage.

Key Characteristics

• Plant Family: Fragaria, part of the Rosaceae (rose) family.
• Classification: An aggregate accessory fruit, not a true berry.
• Appearance: Bright red, heart-shaped, with tiny seeds (achenes) on the exterior.
• Flavor: Sweet and juicy with a hint of tartness.

Nutritional Value

• Excellent source of Vitamin C, Manganese, and antioxidants.
• Good source of fiber, B6, and K vitamins, along with potassium and folic acid.
• Low in calories and primarily water and carbohydrates.

Uses & History

• Eaten fresh, in jams, smoothies, ice cream, and desserts.
• Cultivated worldwide, with historical ties to ancient Rome and modern cultivation in the Americas, Europe, and Russia.
• The name may come from the “strewn” or scattered appearance of the seeds.

Strawberries are sweet, heart-shaped red fruits prized for their juicy texture and distinct aroma. While commonly called berries, they are botanically classified as aggregate accessory fruits because they develop from the flower’s receptacle rather than its ovary.

Key Biological Facts

• Not “True” Berries: True berries have seeds on the inside (like blueberries). A strawberry’s “seeds” are actually tiny individual fruits called achenes, each containing a single seed.
• Plant Family: They are members of the Rosaceae (rose) family.
• Average Seed Count: A typical strawberry has approximately 200 seeds on its outer surface.
• Propagation: Most strawberry plants spread through runners (stolons) that grow along the ground and form new roots.

HOW GERBS DRIED STRAWBERRIES ARE MADE

Strawberries are grown globally, primarily in China, the U.S., Mexico, and Turkey, using methods like matted rows, plasticulture (raised beds with plastic mulch), or greenhouses. They need sun, well-drained soil, and pollinators (bees), with major U.S. production in California (year-round) and Florida (winter), harvested by hand, and often shipped in refrigerated clamshells for freshness.

Where they’re grown

• Globally: China (largest producer), USA, Mexico, Egypt, Turkey, Spain are top producers.
• United States: California (90%) and Florida (8%) dominate, with California offering year-round harvests and Florida focusing on winter months.
• Climate: Grown in temperate regions, often along coastlines (like California’s) for mild weather.

How they’re grown (Commercial & Home)

1. Planting: From plugs or bare roots, ensuring the crown (where leaves emerge) isn’t buried.
2. Soil Prep: Rich, well-drained soil, often amended with compost, is ideal.
3. Watering/Nutrients: Drip irrigation is common; compost socks or mulch help retain moisture.
4. Pollination: Bees are crucial for pollination, as each tiny stigma needs pollen to form a large berry.
5. Weed/Pest Control: Plastic mulch (plasticulture) blocks weeds; organic methods like solarization also used.
6. Harvesting: Hand-picked every few days at peak, packed in clamshells, and quickly cooled and refrigerated.

Growing Methods

• Matted Rows: A traditional method for cooler areas.
• Plasticulture: Raised beds covered in plastic, allowing for drip irrigation and weed control.
• Greenhouses: Provide off-season fruit and controlled environments, sometimes using higher CO2 for better yield and quality.

KEY HEALTH BENEFITS of GERBS DRIED STRAWBERRIES

Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants (like anthocyanins) that boost immunity, support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, aid digestion, help manage blood sugar, protect against certain cancers, support brain health, and promote healthy skin, all while being low in calories and sugar.

Key Health Benefits:

• Immune Support: Excellent source of Vitamin C, crucial for immune function.
• Heart Health: Flavonoids and antioxidants help lower cholesterol, manage blood pressure, and reduce heart attack risk.
• Antioxidant Power: Protect cells from damage, fight inflammation, and may lower cancer risk.
• Blood Sugar Management: Low glycemic index and fiber help prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar.
• Digestive Health: Fiber and water content promote healthy digestion and gut bacteria.
• Brain Health: Antioxidants may slow age-related memory decline.
• Skin Health: Vitamin C promotes collagen production for luminous skin.
• Weight Management: Low in calories and sugar, making them great for weight control.

Key Nutrients:

• Vitamin C: More than an orange in just a few berries.
• Folate (Vitamin B9): Important for cell growth and metabolism.
• Manganese: Supports bone health and metabolism.
• Potassium: Helps control blood pressure.
• Anthocyanins: Give strawberries their red color and offer powerful antioxidant benefits.

HOW TO COOK & INCORPORATE GERBS DRIED STAWBERRIES INTO YOUR DIET

Dried strawberries are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in numerous sweet and savory applications. They offer a concentrated flavor and unique texture (either chewy or crunchy, depending on how they were dried).

Cooking Methods

Dried strawberries generally don’t require “cooking” in the traditional sense, but can be prepared in a few ways:

• As-is: The simplest method is to use them straight from the package for snacking or adding texture to dishes like trail mix or cereal.
• Powdered: Grind dried strawberries in a food processor or spice grinder to create a fine powder. This powder offers an intense flavor boost and can be used to flavor frosting, glazes, or incorporated directly into batters.
• Rehydrated: To achieve a texture closer to fresh fruit, soak them in water, juice, or milk.
  • Quick Soak: Cover with room-temperature water for a few minutes.
  • Overnight Soak: Place them in a liquid in the fridge overnight for a firmer result.
  • Hot Soak (for compote/sauce): Simmer in a little water or honey for 10-20 minutes to create a compote or sauce.
• Incorporated into cooking/baking: You can add them dry directly into batters for muffins, cookies, or quick breads; they will absorb moisture during baking.

Ways to Incorporate into Your Diet

Breakfast Boost

• Oatmeal/Cereal: Sprinkle over hot oatmeal, cold cereal, or granola for a fruity crunch.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layer with yogurt, granola, and other fruits.
• Smoothies/Shakes: Blend into smoothies, protein shakes, or milkshakes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Pancakes/Waffles: Fold into the batter or use as a topping.

Baking and Desserts

• Cookies/Muffins/Cakes: Mix chopped dried strawberries into cookie dough, muffin, or cake batter.
• Frosting/Glaze: Use strawberry powder to naturally flavor frostings or glazes.
• Homemade Granola/Energy Bars: Combine with nuts, seeds, and oats to make healthy snacks.
• Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle crushed dried strawberries over ice cream or incorporate them into homemade ice cream.

Savory Dishes and Snacks

• Snacking: Enjoy them on their own as a healthy, portable snack.
• Trail Mix: Combine with nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate for a balanced snack.
• Salads: Toss into green salads (especially with spinach, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette) for a sweet-tart contrast.
• Savory Pairings: Incorporate them into unique dishes like chicken salad, risotto, or even a lamb tagine for an unexpected sweet note.

Beverages

• Infused Drinks: Add a few pieces to your water, tea, or herbal infusions for a natural fruit flavor.
• Cocktail Garnish: Use whole or crushed pieces as a colorful garnish for cocktails or mocktails.

Order now and Taste the Goodness of Gerbs!

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Storage Recommendations

For the best flavor and freshness, we recommend storing your Gerbs in an airtight container in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet, away from sunlight and heat sources like the oven.

Each time the container is opened, oxygen sneaks in and can speed up rancidity, so try to keep only about one pound of product accessible at a time.

While Gerbs can be frozen, we don’t recommend it. Freezing and thawing can change the natural cell structure, which may affect texture and taste. Keep them cool, dry, and sealed tight for the best experience!