Kochi, Kerala, India
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Raisins or dried grapes are cultivated in various regions all over the world. The varieties of raisins depend on the type of grape used, resulting in various colored raisins including, green, black, blue, purple, and yellow. Grapes are made into raisins through various processes including sun drying, water dipping or dehydrating. Golden-yellow raisins, popularly called sultanas, are treated with drying oil in order to develop their golden color, before being dried on special drying racks. Miniature raisins called currants are made by sun drying certain varieties of red seedless grapes like such as Black Corinth or Zante currant.
The sugars in raisins range from about 67% to 72%, depending on the variety and dehydration process. California in the United States, Australia, Turkey, Greece, Iran, India and Chile are the main producers of raisins.
Uses of raisins
As a condiment: Raisins have been in use since 2000 B.C., as a food ingredient, snack and condiment. Being light in weight, easy to pack and slow to spoil, has made the high-energy, low fat raisin a preferred snack for travelers since ancient times. Raisins are also used extensively in baked good, desserts, chocolates and ice creams. Their sweetness and texture also makes them a great addition to poultry stuffing, breakfast cereals and energy bars. In some European countries, raisins are used in the brewery industry.
For general health: Raisins have long been considered as a health food, as they are high in antioxidants, low in sodium and cholesterol-free. They are also a rich source of the trace mineral, boron, which is essential to bone health, especially in postmenopausal women. Boron is required by the body as it protects against osteoporosis through the conversion of estrogen and vitamin D. Regular consumption of raisins also help in lowering the risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), which is the primary cause of vision loss in older adults. Raisins have also been found to significantly lower blood pressure levels in individuals suffering from hypertension.
Selection and storage of raisins
If possible, always buy raisins that are sold in transparent containers. This will enable you to check to see their color and if they are moist and undamaged.
It is advisable to store raisins in a glass container, in a cool, dark and moisture-free environment. Refrigerating them will help retain their moisture and extend their shelf life. Although raisins can last for years, they start to dry out and lose their freshness after six months from the date of packing.
Purchase superior quality raisins at Ameen Exports
Ameen Exports located in Cochin, Kerala, offer superior quality raisins that are cleaned and packed in our state-of-the-art processing unit. Our products are sourced directly from planters who comply with our pre-set quality values, which include the right agricultural practices like proper harvesting time and zero pesticide usage. We also offer customized branding and packing solutions to our worldwide clientele.
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Dates are the sweet edible fruit of the date palm, eaten either fresh or dried. Date palms bear fruit after 4 to 8 years after which they commercially harvested for another 7 to 10 years. Three main varieties of dates exist: soft, semi-dry, and dry, with their color ranging from bright red to bright yellow depending on the variety. Dates are oval-cylindrical in shape and measure about 37 cm in length, and 23 cm in diameter.
Archeological evidence of date palm cultivation dates back to 6000 BC, with evidence found in Egypt, Arabia and the Indus Valley. Today, dates are mainly cultivated in Iraq, Arabia, Morocco, India, Mexico, and in some parts of the United States.
Uses of dates
As a condiment: The soft and sweet dry fruit is enjoyed worldwide as a nutritious snack. Traditionally dates play an important role in the Islamic culture as they are the first foods (along with milk or yoghurt), to be consumed for Iftar, after the sun has set during the holy month of Ramadan. Originally used extensively in Arabic, Indian, Pakistani and North African cooking, dates are now being incorporated in the cuisines of other countries as well. Date nut bread, date covered chocolates, date syrup and date pudding are popular all over the world. Dates are also used to make date vinegar and sparkling date juice, a non-alcoholic version of champagne.
For general health: Dates are considered by nutritionists as one of the 'super-foods', as they are packed with most vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed for a balanced diet. They are also rich in dietary fiber (which helps in lowering LDL cholesterol) and vitamin A (which contributes towards good eyesight). Dates also contain several important antioxidant flavonoids such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zea-xanthin, which help in protecting against colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Furthermore, dates contain a high percentage of iron (0.90 mg for every 100 g), and is prescribed as a therapeutic aid for those suffering from anemia.
Selection and storage of dates
Most grocery stores stock dates all through the year and consumers can choose from the soft, semi-dry, or dried varieties. Good quality dates should be firm and free from mold or fungus.
Dates stay fresh for up to a year when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating dates, as they tend to dry out and lose moisture when stored in low temperatures.
Purchase superior quality dates at Ameen Exports
Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, offer superior quality dates to wholesalers, packers, distributors, fast food companies, restaurants, large importers, and supermarket chains the world over. We maintain our quality standards by sourcing our products directly from planters who comply with our pre-set quality values, and then processing them in our modern processing unit. We also offer a wide range of customized packaging and branding solutions that our clients can benefit from.
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Red chilly, also known as chilly peppers, is a plant native to South America. Belonging to the family Solanaceae, the red chilly plant (capsicum frutescens), was most probably brought to India to by the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. India now holds the record as the world's largest producer, consumer and exporter of red chilies.
The plant is grown all through the year and is harvested from January till August. The whole red chillies are then dried and further processed as chilly powder, chilly flakes, chilly paste and chilly oils and oleoresins.
Uses of red chilly
As a condiment: Red chillies are a dominant spice that is found in cuisines in all parts of the world. Known by various names (capsicum, paprika, sweet pepper, red pepper, pimento, cayenne pepper etc.); the red chilly is used in different ways to add heat and spice to varied dishes such as soups, salads, gravies, and sauces. The red chilly is also used to make 'hot sauce' popular in Europe and the Middle East and chilly oil, an important condiment in China, Japan and Thailand.
For general health: Chillies are rich in Vitamin A and C, and contain a sizable amount of antioxidants and carotenoids. Capsaicin, the substance that gives chillies their characteristic 'hotness', has been found to be helpful in fighting inflammation, clearing congestion, boosting immunity, reducing blood cholesterol, preventing stomach ulcers, lowering the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and acting as a natural pain reliever. Compounds of capsaicin also significantly increase thermogenesis (heat production) and oxygen consumption for more than 20 minutes after they are eaten and thereby help in losing weight by the faster burning of calories.
Selection and storage of red chilly
While purchasing whole red chillies, choose those that come with a bright, deep red color and glossy, firm and taut skins. Furthermore, ensure that their stems are hardy as this indicates that the chilly is fresh. Refrain from buying whole chillies that are wrinkled or have soft areas with black spots. Choose chilly powder or chilly flakes, with a deep red color, as this ensures that the freshness and flavour is intact. Red chillies can be kept fresh for up to a year when stored in an airtight jar away from sunlight.
Purchase superior quality red chilly at Ameen Exports
Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, offers superior quality whole red chillies and processed red chilly in powder and flake form. Sourced directly from the chilly farmers themselves, the whole chillies are processed and packed in our state-of-the-art processing unit fitted with the latest machinery. We also offer customized branding options wherein red chillies are packed to your requirements with your brand name.
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Pepper, the most famous of all spices, is native to the Malabar Coast in South India. Pepper, harvested from the Piper nigrum plant (family Piperaceae), also holds the distinction of being the most traded spice in the world. The use of dried ground pepper powder as a condiment to add flavor and spice in culinary preparations has been in record since time immemorial.
The pepper plant, a smooth woody vine that can grow up to 33 feet, produces small round berries that is approximately 5 millimeters (0.20 in) in diameter. This is harvested between the months of October and February and then processed and packed for use.
Uses of pepper
As a condiment: A pinch of pepper powder is used in most dishes ranging from soups and salads to main courses. Mainly used to infuse heat into a dish, pepper, used either whole, crushed or finely ground, brings a whole new flavor to an otherwise bland dish. Black pepper powder, commonly paired with table salt is also seen as a necessary component that is placed on the dining tables all around the world. White pepper, which is essentially the same spice with the skin removed, is mostly used during the preparation of light colored foods and marinades. Though white pepper differs slightly in taste, the pale color provides the color consistency that is needed in gourmet dishes.
For general health: Pepper, apart from being an antioxidant and anti-bacterial agent, is also known to improve digestion and promote intestinal health. By stimulating the taste buds, pepper aids in the promotion of hydrochloric secretion in the stomach, which helps in the digestion of proteins. Black pepper is also a carminative, (preventing the formation of intestinal gas), a diaphoretic (promoting sweating), and a diuretic (promoting urination). In addition, the outer layer of the peppercorn helps burn fat through the stimulation of the fat cells.
Storage and utility of black pepper
Black pepper remains freshest when kept in a cool and dry place in a tightly sealed glass container. While whole peppercorns will stay fresh for 2 -3 years, ground pepper powder retains its freshness for about 3-6 months. Pepper can also be frozen to enhance its flavor and shelf life.
Although crushed and ground pepper is available, the best flavor is obtained only when the whole peppercorns are freshly ground. Therefore, it is advisable to grind them yourself in a pepper mill just before adding to a recipe.
Purchase superior quality pepper at Ameen Exports
Ameem Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, on the Malabar Coast offer superior grade Black Pepper. Sourced directly from the planters, the pepper is processed in our state-of-the-art facility that helps it retain its freshness. Clients can choose from our various varieties of black pepper that include full peppercorns, halved, crushed, coarsely ground and finely ground.
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Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare, is a perennial herb that is native to Southern Europe and now cultivated extensively all over Europe, China, India, Turkey and the Middle East. The fennel plant grows to a height of up to 2.5 m, before bearing small oblong seeds that are slightly curved in shape, light green in color and about 3-4 mm long. They have fine vertical stripes all over their surface.
Fennel is an ancient spice and is referred to several times in Greek mythology. It was closely associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of food and wine, and it was in a fennel stalk that the coal of knowledge was passed from the gods to men. Today, India is the leader in the production of fennel.
Uses of fennel
As a condiment: Fennel seeds are an important spice in Indian, Pakistani, Iranian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is also an important ingredient in Indian curry masalas, and Chinese five-spice powders. The leaves of the fennel plant are used as a vegetable and are common in Syria, Lebanon, Italy and other Mediterranean countries. Its essential oil is used in herbal toothpastes and as a massage oil to relieve joint pain.
For general health: Fennel has been used in ancient medicine systems for a wide variety of illnesses, including as a carminative, for the treatment of hypertension, for improving eyesight and for chronic cough. Recent research has confirmed the presence of flavonoid anti-oxidants like kaempferol and quercetin , which help remove harmful free radicals from the body and thus protect from cancers, infection, aging and degenerative neurological diseases. In addition, fennel is also a rich source of insoluble dietary fiber, which helps in lowering cholesterol and providing protection from colon cancer.
Selection and storage of fennel
Fresh fennel seeds are bright green in color and have a strong sweet aroma similar to licorice or anise. They lose their aroma and change to a dry brown color when stored for long periods.
It is advisable to store fresh fennel seeds in an airtight glass container, in a cool, dark and dry place. While fennel seeds remain fresh for six months, powdered fennel loses its flavor within three months from the date of packing due to the quick evaporation of its essential oils. Refrigerating fennel seeds can help extend their shelf life.
Purchase superior quality fennel at Ameen Exports
Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, is the best place to purchase high quality whole fennel seeds and fennel powder. Directly sourced from the framers themselves, the fresh fennel seeds are processed in our state-of-the-art processing unit fitted with latest machinery including pre-cleaners, de-stoners, mills, stuffing cum sealing machines, packaging cum bagging machines, aspirators, graders etc. We also provide customized branding and packing solutions for bulk export orders.
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The humble peanut (Arachis hypogaea) alternatively known as earthnuts, ground nuts, goober peas, monkey nuts or pygmy nuts, is technically not a nut, but a legume that belongs to the family Fabaceae. First domesticated in South America, the peanut is now grown all over the world with India ranking second after China in the commercial production of peanuts.
Introduced in India by Spanish and Portuguese sailors, the peanut plant starts by flowering above ground, but then eventually bends, burrows underground and produces a pod containing two to three peanut kernels. The edible oval-shaped 'nut' comprises of two off-white lobes that are covered by a thin brownish-red skin.
Uses of peanuts
As a condiment: Peanuts are used in cuisines around the world in a variety of forms, including peanut butter, peanut oil, peanut flour, and peanut flakes. It is also enjoyed as snack and can be eaten either roasted or boiled with the shell. The hard, buttery and nutty flavor of the peanut makes it perfect as a salad topping, cooking sauce or gravy base.
For general health: Peanuts are an extremely good source of protein and contain high amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B3, folate and manganese. They also help towards keeping the heart healthy, as they are rich in monosaturated fats, Vitamin E and the antioxidant resveratrol. Ongoing research has shown that regular intake of peanuts help in preventing gallstones, reducing obesity and protecting against Alzheimer's, stroke and colon cancer. However, peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions in some people and have been labeled as one of the eight food types responsible for causing food allergies.
Selection and storage of peanuts
Peanuts are available shelled in bags and in bulk containers. Fresh peanuts are heavy when held in the hand and should not have cracks, dark spots or insect damage.
Shelled peanuts should be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator or freezer since exposure to heat, humidity or light will cause them to spoil and become rancid. They will keep fresh up to three months in the refrigerator and six months in the freezer.
Purchase superior quality peanuts at Ameen Exports
Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, provide superior quality peanuts. We provide cleaned and shelled peanuts in bulk quantities to wholesalers, distributors, supermarkets, food chains, restaurants and other large importers. We also provide customized processing and packing solutions whereby peanuts are packed and branded with the clients name in the required quantity.
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The deliciously tasty cashew nut grows on the Cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale), a native of the Brazilian rain forest. Brought to India and the Far East by Portuguese sailors, the cashew tree is now cultivated in most tropical countries with India, Brazil and Vietnam being the top producers.
The fruit of the cashew tree popularly known as cashew apple is an edible, pear shaped "false fruit" to which a small bean shaped, grey color "true-fruit" is attached. This "true fruit" with its hard outer shell encloses a single edible seed, which is the cashew nut. Good quality cashew nuts are generally kidney shaped, cream white in color and about an inch in length. They have a firm yet delicate and smooth texture.
Uses of cashew nuts
As a condiment: Cashew nuts, which are known for their distinct sweetness and buttery texture, are popular as a snack and are eaten in many different forms- raw, roasted, salted, fried, spiced or dipped in honey. The cashew nut is also used as an ingredient either whole or powdered in Indian, Chinese, Thai, South African and Brazilian cuisine. The unique taste and flavor of this versatile nut allows it to be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
For general health: Cashew nuts are rich in minerals and have significant amounts of iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. They are also rich in the antioxidant selenium, a cancer- protecting agent. Regular intake of cashew nuts is said to be 'heart healthy' since the monounsaturated-fatty acids like oleic, and palmitoleic acids found in cashew nuts help lower harmful LDL cholesterol while increasing good HDL cholesterol. Cashew nuts are also a good source of vitamins and 100 grams of cashew nuts provide 0.147 mg or 32% of the daily- recommended levels of pyridoxine (vitamin B6).
Selection and storage of cashew nuts
Cashew nuts are always sold shelled, since the shell contains the phenolic resin, urushiol, which is a potent skin irritant toxin. Superior quality nuts can be identified by their bright cream-white colour and uniformity in size. Good quality nuts feel heavy when held in the hand, and are free from cracks, spots and rancid smell.
Cashew nuts stay fresh for 5-6 months when stored in an airtight container. They can also be refrigerated as this helps in avoiding them turning rancid and losing their sweetness.
Purchase superior quality cashew nuts at Ameen Exports
Ameem Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, offers superior grade cashew nuts to wholesalers, packers, distributors, fast food companies, restaurants, large importers, and supermarket chains around the world. We ensure quality by sourcing directly from the planters and then processing the nuts in our processing unit that has state-of-the-art facilities like pre-pack sorting lines, color-sorters and metal detectors. This ensures the superior quality of our freshly shelled nuts, making it an ideal choice either as a snack or as a food ingredient.
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