Is Berries & Golden Raisins Dried Mixed Fruit Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and straight at the label. This specific blend of Dried cranberries, Golden raisins, and Dried red tart cherries appears vegan on the surface, but there are nuances to consider regarding processing agents and additives.

The primary concern for strict vegans is the refined sugar found in the cranberries and cherries. In the United States, a significant portion of white sugar is processed using bone char (ground animal bones) to filter and bleach the sugar crystals. Unless the manufacturer explicitly states they use organic sugar or sugar processed without bone char, this ingredient renders the product technically non-vegan to purists.

Additionally, the product contains sunflower oil to prevent clumping, which is perfectly plant-based. However, the preservatives listed—sulfur dioxide, sodium bisulfite, and sodium metabisulfite—are synthetic chemicals used to extend shelf life and preserve the red color of the cherries and cranberries. While these are mineral-derived and generally considered vegan, some ethical vegans avoid highly processed additives. The biggest flag remains the sugar.

Nutritional Value

Dried fruit is a calorie-dense food, and this mix is no exception. The drying process removes water, concentrating the natural sugars and calories. Because this blend includes added sugar (sucrose) in the cranberries and cherries, the glycemic index is higher than that of fresh fruit.

From a nutritional standpoint, this product is a decent source of fiber and antioxidants, particularly from the cherries and cranberries. However, if you are monitoring your sugar intake for weight loss or blood sugar management, the added sweeteners make this a less-than-ideal snack compared to fresh berries or unsweetened dried fruit. It fits into a healthy diet only in strict moderation due to the high concentration of total sugars.