Longan processing involves transforming fresh longan fruits into various processed products such as dried longan, longan juice, longan syrup, and longan in syrup. Here are the general steps involved in longan processing
Step
- Harvesting: Longan fruits are harvested when they are fully ripe and have developed their characteristic sweet taste. Careful harvesting is necessary to avoid damaging the fruits.
- Washing and Sorting: The harvested longan fruits are washed thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. They are then sorted based on their size, color, and quality. Damaged or unripe fruits are discarded.
- Peeling: Longan fruits have a thin, brittle outer skin that can be easily peeled by making a small incision or cut near the stem end. The skin is gently removed, revealing the translucent flesh inside.
- Seed Removal: Longan fruits contain a large seed or stone in the center, which is not consumed. The seed is carefully removed from the fruit by hand or using a small knife.
- Processing Methods:
- Fresh Consumption: Longan fruits can be enjoyed fresh as a healthy snack or added to fruit salads, desserts, or beverages.
- Drying: Longan fruits can be dried to extend their shelf life. Dried longan fruits are popular as a chewy and sweet snack.
- Canning: Longan fruits can be canned in syrup or water to preserve their freshness. The fruits are packed into cans along with a sweet syrup or water solution, and the cans are sealed for preservation.
- Freezing: Longan fruits can be frozen to maintain their freshness for a longer period. The fruits are typically peeled, deseeded, and then frozen. Frozen longan can be used in smoothies, desserts, or as a topping for various dishes.
- Packaging: This can include pouches, cans, jars, or sealed bags. Proper labeling and sealing are done to ensure product safety and quality.
- Distributed to retailers, supermarkets, or exported to different markets.
Source of information : https://thailandseasonfruit.com/