Nutritional Powerhouse
Freeze-dried fruit retains most of the nutrients found in fresh fruit, making it an excellent source of vitamins and minerals essential for growing children. Unlike other snack options that are often laden with artificial additives and sugars, freeze-dried fruit provides a wholesome alternative. For my children, this means they can enjoy a healthy snack that supports their overall well-being without compromising on taste.
Sensory Stimulation
Autistic children often have unique sensory preferences, and this can extend to the foods they eat. Studies show that children on the autism spectrum are more likely to enjoy fruits with a crunchy texture. The crunchy texture of freeze-dried fruit offers a delightful sensory experience that can be particularly appealing to children seeking oral stimulation. One of my children, who has always struggled with sensory issues, finds the crispness of freeze-dried fruit soothing. It has become a go-to snack that they not only enjoy but also find comforting.
Convenience and Versatility
One of the standout benefits of freeze-dried fruit is its convenience. As a busy parent, having a healthy, ready-to-eat snack on hand is invaluable. Freeze-dried fruit doesn’t require refrigeration and has a long shelf life, making it perfect for on-the-go snacking or quick additions to meals. Whether it’s packing a lunchbox for school or grabbing a snack for a family outing, freeze-dried fruit fits seamlessly into our lifestyle. Soon, we will offer snack pack sizes ideal for school lunches, along with a bigger variety of non-tropical fruits.
Overcoming Eating Challenges
Feeding therapy has been a significant part of our journey, especially with my other child who was diagnosed with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Introducing new foods can be a daunting task, but freeze-dried fruit has been a pleasant surprise. Its familiar flavours and appealing texture have made it easier for my child to accept and enjoy. We’ve seen a marked improvement in their willingness to try new foods, thanks to the positive experiences with freeze-dried fruit.
It’s important to note that eating problems are common among autistic children, with studies suggesting that up to 70% of autistic kids experience some form of feeding difficulty. This can range from selective eating to food aversions, making it crucial to find foods that are both nutritious and appealing.
Variety and Fun
Freeze-dried fruit comes in a variety of options, from strawberries and bananas to exotic fruits like dragon fruit and mango. This variety keeps snack time exciting and fun, offering my children a range of flavours and colours to explore. It has also opened up opportunities for us to learn about different fruits and their origins, turning snack time into an educational experience.
No Mess, No Preparation
One of the additional benefits of freeze-dried fruit is the lack of mess and preparation required. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy parents who need quick, healthy snacks that are ready to eat. The long shelf life also means these snacks are available all year round, regardless of the season.
Nutrient-Dense and Healthful
Every 1g of freeze-dried fruit equates to approximately 10g of fresh fruit. This means that consuming 15g-30g of freeze-dried fruit daily equates to 150g-300g of fresh fruit, perfectly aligning with the recommended daily fruit intake for children. Our freeze-dried fruits provide a nutrient-dense, convenient, and appealing way to ensure kids receive their necessary vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Incorporating freeze-dried fruit into our diet has brought numerous benefits, from nutritional advantages to sensory satisfaction and convenience. It has helped my children overcome some of their eating challenges and brought joy to snack time. If you’re a parent of an autistic child, I highly recommend giving freeze-dried fruit a try. It might just become a beloved part of your family’s diet, as it has for ours.
At Exotica Tropical, we offer a variety of freeze-dried fruits, including Musang King Durian, MD2 Pineapple, and J33 Honey Jackfruit, among others. These fruits not only provide a nutritious snack but also introduce a world of exotic flavours to your child’s palate. Explore our range and discover the benefits for yourself. More flavours are about to be released soon, so stay tuned for even more exciting options.
For more information, visit Exotica Tropical