Fruits and Vegetables are a significant component, especially in infant food. Fresh vegetables and fruits are prone to damage by insects, microbial spoilage, physical or chemical contamination, spoilage, etc. Spray-drying of fresh vegetables and fruits is a convenient way of preserving nutrients and making it shelf-stable. Spray-dried fruits and vegetables are increasingly finding their way into infant food, offering a simple way of delivering essential nutrients in stable, flexible forms. Greater emphasis on accuracy in nutrient delivery and product quality, the powders enable effective fortification of infant foods by manufacturers with assurance of process efficacy and formulation efficacy.
Spray-dried powders are highly convenient and improve shelf life, enabling better formulation. They contain little water, hence easy to transport and store compared to fresh or frozen counterparts. They also fit seamlessly into already installed manufacturing equipment, and batch control and dosing are reduced.
Spinach
Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. Spinach also contains lutein, an antioxidant that has been found to aid vision and infant mental development. All these nutrients aid in hemoglobin development, brain growth, and the formation of bone matrix.
Broccoli
A plant-based source of vitamins C and K, broccoli is linked with immune function, anti-inflammatory processes, and cell protection. It also provides fiber, which is important for metabolic and digestive growth.
Carrot
Carrots contain beta-carotene, the pre-vitamin A, which is used to maintain healthy skin and for the development of eyesight, especially night vision. Their dietary fiber is also used to maintain digestion.
Orange
Oranges offer natural acids and vitamin C. Orange powder enhances immune defense, collagen synthesis for repair of tissues, and enhances the bioavailability of iron—critical for growth and energy.
Mango
Natural sugars, vitamin C, and potassium are found in mangoes. Mango powder provides taste and offers digestive enzymes that serve to promote gastrointestinal comfort in infants.
Banana
Bananas contain their high potassium, vitamin B6, and resistant starch. These are for muscle function, digestion, and slow energy release. Banana powder also contains prebiotic fiber that stimulates good gut bacteria necessary for nutrient absorption.
Strawberry
Strawberries contain vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidant polyphenols. These prevent growing cells from oxidative stress and aid in memory and cognitive development.
Spray-dried fruit and vegetable powders for infant nutrition are extremely versatile. They find application in a wide variety of products ranging from weaning foods to toddler snacks, purees, breakfast cereals, and nutritional beverages. Their ability to provide essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin A, and fiber without affecting the texture or stability of the end product is an added advantage. Their neutral flavor and natural color also improve visual acceptance and acceptability of the product.
Spray-dried fruit and vegetable powders for infant nutrition are a highly effective and shelf-stable way of boosting the nutritional value of infant food. With high nutrient density, efficiency of production, and versatility across product forms, these powders enable manufacturers to make progressive health-oriented formulations meeting caregiver demands and regulatory requirements.
Vinayak Ingredients (INDIA) Pvt. Ltd. has over 24+ years of experience in delivering high-quality Food Additives. We focus and manufacture products obtained from Natural sources such as Natural Colors, Spray-dried Fruit and Vegetable Powders & Natural Extracts which are eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable.
