What are IQF Fruits?
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IQF fruits (Individually Quick Frozen fruits) are transforming the way businesses store, use, and serve fruit.
By freezing each piece separately, this method locks in freshness, taste, and nutrients while offering unparalleled convenience. In the UK, where quality and sustainability are priorities, IQF frozen fruits are gaining traction across food manufacturing, retail, and food service industries. Here’s everything you need to know about IQF fruits—what they are, how they’re made, and why they’re better than traditional frozen fruits.
What are IQF Fruits?
IQF stands for "Individually Quick Frozen." It’s a process that freezes fruit pieces one at a time instead of in large blocks. This keeps them separate, fresh, and easy to handle.
How It Works:
- Fruits are harvested at their ripest to ensure maximum flavour and nutrition.
- They are washed, peeled, and prepared for freezing. If necessary, the fruit is then diced. It's important to note that there are no artificial colouring, preservatives, or aromas involved.
- Once prepared, the fruit is frozen quickly at a very low temperature, typically between -30°C to -40°C. This quick freezing helps keep each piece of fruit intact and preserves its quality and nutritional value. The process is quick enough to prevent large ice crystals from forming within the cells of the product, which would otherwise compromise its quality.
- The fruit is then packed and stored at -18°C, ready for distribution.
- They can then be thawed, sweetened, and heat-treated as needed for use in various food products.
Types of Fruits Suitable for IQF Processing
The IQF method is perfect for small food items, ensuring each piece stays individually frozen, making them easier to process further. A variety of fruits are well-suited to IQF technology, including:
- Blackberries
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Apples
- Cranberries
- Jackfruit
- Apricots and many more.
The Benefits of IQF Fruits
1. High-Quality Results
The IQF process prevents large ice crystals from forming, which means the fruit’s texture, taste, and nutrients remain intact.
2. Extended Shelf Life
IQF fruits last for months without losing quality when stored at -18°C. This reduces spoilage and waste, making them cost-effective for businesses.
3. Unmatched Convenience
Because they’re frozen individually, you can take exactly what you need without defrosting an entire pack. This saves time and reduces waste.
4. Better Nutrition
Frozen within hours of harvest, IQF fruits retain more vitamins and minerals than fresh fruit that spend days in storage or transit.
5. Sustainability
Longer shelf life and reduced spoilage make IQF frozen fruit a greener choice. They also require fewer resources for transport and storage compared to fresh fruits.
Applications of IQF Fruits
Food Manufacturing
IQF frozen fruits are used in desserts, sauces, jams, and baked goods. Their consistency and quality make them ideal for pies, cakes, and pastries.
Beverages
In smoothies, milkshakes, and cocktails, IQF fruit offers a natural taste, vibrant colour, and consistent quality.
Dairy Products
From yoghurts to ice creams, IQF fruit adds flavour and texture without requiring additional preparation.
Retail
Shoppers love the convenience of IQF fruit for home cooking, whether for a healthy breakfast, quick snacks, or desserts.
Why Are IQF Fruits So Popular?
The UK is one of the biggest markets for IQF fruit in Europe. Key factors driving demand include:
- The rise of convenience foods.
- Increased awareness of the health benefits of fruit-rich diets.
- Year-round availability of exotic and seasonal fruits, thanks to IQF technology.
Why Choose Uren as Your IQF Fruit Supplier?
At Uren, we’re proud to be one of the leading IQF fruit suppliers in the UK. We source top-quality fruit from BRC-certified IQF fruit producers worldwide. Our products include berries, tropical fruits, stone fruits, and more, tailored to meet the needs of food manufacturers, retailers, and food service providers.
Why work with us?
- Year-round availability of high-quality IQF fruits.
- Compliance with all UK food safety and labelling regulations.
- Tailored solutions and expert support for your business.
Contact our team today to learn how IQF frozen fruits can help your business thrive.
FAQs About IQF Fruits
What Does IQF Stand For?
IQF stands for "Individually Quick Frozen." This is a freezing method where fruits are frozen one piece at a time, preserving their texture, taste, and nutrients. Learn more about how this process works here.
How Do IQF Fruits Compare to Fresh Fruits?
Both IQF fruits and fresh fruits have significant health benefits, but they differ in how well they retain nutrients over time. IQF fruits are frozen at peak ripeness, locking in nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants. According to Healthline, frozen fruits often retain more nutrients than fresh fruits stored for several days. Fresh fruits lose nutrients such as vitamin C rapidly after harvest, sometimes up to 51% within 48 hours of picking.
Are IQF Fruits as Healthy as Fresh Fruits?
Yes, and sometimes IQF fruits are even healthier. They maintain their nutritional value better during storage, especially compared to fresh fruits that spend days in transit or at home. Studies like this one from Blendtec show that frozen fruits can preserve antioxidants and vitamins better than fresh ones over time.
What Are the Advantages of IQF Fruits Over Fresh Fruits?
IQF fruits are available year-round, allowing you to enjoy exotic or out-of-season produce no matter the season. They are pre-washed and frozen individually, which makes them incredibly convenient to use. Unlike fresh fruits, which spoil quickly, IQF fruits have a much longer shelf life, minimising waste. Nutritionally, frozen fruits retain their peak vitamin and antioxidant levels, as noted by the BBC.
How Are IQF Fruits Used?
IQF fruits are used in a variety of ways. They’re ideal for smoothies and juices, offering consistent flavour and convenience. They work well in bakery products like pies and muffins, providing excellent texture and natural sweetness. In dairy products such as yoghurts and ice creams, IQF fruits add a vibrant taste without requiring additional preparation. They are also popular in sauces, jams, and chutneys.
