Raisin

Raisin, dried grape. Ripe grapes that are 20% sugar by weight are picked and then laid out in the sun to dry for 10–14 days on brown paper. Machines help stem, grade, rinse, and package the raisins. Raisins are mainly produced in California, Australia, Greece, Iran, and Turkey. A delicacy since ancient times, raisins are noted for their natural sugar content and various vitamins and minerals. Requiring no preservatives, they are eaten as is or used in cooking or baking. Thompson Seedless grapes are most commonly used; other types are Muscat of Alexandria, Black Corinth, and Sultana.