Raisins are dried grapes. This drying process concentrates both the nutrients and sugars present in grapes, making raisins nutrient and calorie-dense.
Raisins originated in the Middle East before making their way to Europe, where they were especially popular among the Greeks and Romans. Historically, raisins were used as currency, as awards in sporting events, and to treat ailments like food poisoning.
Today, raisins are available at most supermarkets and come in different colors depending on the drying process used. Golden yellow raisins are commonly added to baked goods, while red and brown varieties are popular for snacking.
Raisins are a nutrient-dense food that’s minimally processed, with no added ingredients or preservatives. But they’re also high in sugar and calories, so they