Since the ancient Egyptians were the first to discover that drying grapes preserved them longer, improved their flavor, and made them sweeter, people have been able to enjoy raisins.
Most of today's raisins are made from seedless grapes grown in the vineyards of large orchards. Each vine, with the right care, can produce fruit for more than 100 years. After the grapes ripen on the vine, they are picked by hand or machine. They are then placed on a thick brown paper that is placed on the ground next to the vines. There they are left to dry in the sun for 10 to 15 days.
Once dried, the raisins are stored for several days in large containers where their humidity is controlled. The raisins are then sent to the packing centres where they are washed and finally packed.
Raisins with seeds pass through an additional machine where rubber rollers gently press the seeds to separate them from the raisins.
Raisins were considered a delicacy by the ancients, even the Bible tells us of an Israelite who paid his taxes to King David with raisins!
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