Crofters Organic Just Fruit Spread Apricot offers a delightful taste experience for fruit spread enthusiasts. This product combines the natural sweetness of apricots with apple juice concentrate, resulting in a spread that’s 98% fruit. It contains no added sugar, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fruit preserves.
The spread features a smooth texture with some chunks, delivering a vibrant apricot flavor. It caters to various dietary needs, being both gluten-free and vegan. This allergen-free option allows more people to enjoy the pure taste of apricots without worrying about common food sensitivities.
Crofters Organic uses high-quality organic fruits in their spreads, ensuring a clean and natural product. The Just Fruit line emphasizes simplicity, focusing on the fruit’s natural flavors without unnecessary additives. This apricot spread serves as a versatile pantry staple, perfect for toast, baking, or as a yogurt topping.
Overview of Crofters Just Fruit Spreads
Crofter’s Just Fruit Spreads offer a healthier alternative to traditional jams and preserves. These spreads contain no refined sugar and are made primarily from fruit and fruit juice concentrates.
Brand and Product Line
Crofter’s Organic is known for its commitment to high-quality, organic fruit spreads. The Just Fruit line is a key part of their product offerings, focusing on minimal ingredients and natural sweetness. These spreads contain 98% fruit, using concentrated apple juice as a sweetener instead of refined sugar. The brand emphasizes the use of organic ingredients and sustainable practices in their production process.
Crofter’s Just Fruit Spreads come in 10-ounce (283-gram) glass jars. The packaging is designed to preserve freshness, with the spreads filled and sealed while hot. This product line caters to health-conscious consumers looking for low-sugar alternatives to traditional preserves.
Just Fruit Spread Variety
The Just Fruit line includes several flavor options, with apricot being a popular choice. These spreads offer a balance of tartness and sweetness, showcasing the natural flavors of the fruits used. The apricot variety features a smooth texture with some fruit chunks, providing a vibrant taste experience.
Other flavors in the Just Fruit line may include strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry. Each spread in this range maintains the brand’s commitment to using primarily fruit ingredients. The spreads contain about 30 calories per serving, making them a suitable option for those monitoring their calorie intake. Crofter’s Just Fruit Spreads are available in various grocery stores, organic food markets, and online platforms.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Profile
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Apricot Spread combines simple, wholesome ingredients with a focus on fruit-based sweetness. This spread offers nutritional benefits while maintaining a delicious taste profile.
Prime Ingredients in Apricot Just Fruit Spread
The main components of this spread are organic apple juice concentrate and organic apricots. Apple juice concentrate serves as a natural sweetener, replacing refined sugar. Organic apricots provide the primary flavor and texture.
Apple pectin is added as a thickening agent, giving the spread its consistency. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) acts as a natural preservative and nutrient booster. Citric acid helps balance the flavor and maintain freshness.
This simple ingredient list reflects Crofter’s commitment to using whole, organic fruits without artificial additives.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of Crofter’s Apricot Just Fruit Spread contains only 30 calories. This low-calorie profile makes it a smart choice for those watching their caloric intake.
The spread is an excellent source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for immune function and skin health. Apricots are rich in antioxidants, which may help protect cells from damage.
Fiber content in this spread contributes to daily fiber needs. Adequate fiber intake supports digestive health and can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Daily Value Considerations
While exact percentages of daily values are not provided, the spread likely contributes to vitamin C intake. The FDA recommends 65-90 mg of vitamin C daily for adults.
Fiber content, though not specified, adds to the daily recommended 25-30 grams. However, this spread should not be relied upon as a primary fiber source.
Sugar content from fruit juices should be considered in daily carbohydrate intake. The spread’s natural sweetness comes without added refined sugars, aligning with recommendations to limit added sugars in the diet.
Health and Dietary Implications
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Spread Apricot offers several health and dietary benefits. This product caters to various dietary needs and restrictions while providing a flavorful fruit spread option.
Gluten-free and Vegan Standards
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Spread Apricot is naturally gluten-free. This makes it suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product contains no wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing ingredients.
The spread is also vegan-friendly. It contains no animal products or by-products, aligning with vegan dietary standards. This makes it a versatile option for those following plant-based diets.
With only 30 calories per serving, this spread can be incorporated into various dietary plans. It provides a sweet taste without excessive calorie intake.
Allergen Information
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Spread Apricot is free from many common allergens. The product contains no nuts, dairy, eggs, or soy.
It is made primarily from apricots and apple juice concentrate. This simple ingredient list reduces the risk of hidden allergens.
Individuals with fruit allergies, particularly to apricots or apples, should exercise caution. The product is processed in a facility that handles other fruits, so cross-contamination is possible.
Always check the label for the most up-to-date allergen information. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns or allergies.
Usage Suggestions
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Apricot Spread offers a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. This fridge staple can enhance a wide range of dishes with its balanced flavor profile.
Versatile Applications in Cooking
The apricot spread serves as an excellent glaze for meats and vegetables. Brush it on chicken or pork during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.
For roasted vegetables, mix the spread with a touch of olive oil and herbs. Toss with carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes before roasting for a caramelized exterior.
Use it as a flavor enhancer in sauces and marinades. Add a spoonful to barbecue sauce for depth, or whisk into vinaigrettes for salad dressings with a fruity twist.
Incorporate the spread into savory dishes like curry or tagine for a subtle sweetness that complements spices.
Ideas for Sweets and Desserts
Elevate pastries and baked goods with this apricot spread. Fill Danish pastries or turnovers for a fruity center.
Spread it between cake layers or use as a topping for cheesecake. The natural sweetness pairs well with both light and rich desserts.
Create an easy fruit tart by spreading it on a pre-baked tart shell and topping with fresh fruit.
Mix into yogurt or oatmeal for a quick breakfast boost. The spread adds flavor without excessive sugar.
For a simple dessert, warm the spread and drizzle over vanilla ice cream or pound cake.
Pairings with Meals and Snacks
Use the apricot spread as a condiment for cheese plates. Its tart notes complement both soft and hard cheeses.
Spread it on toast, English muffins, or bagels for a fruity twist on breakfast or snacks.
Add a dollop to plain Greek yogurt for a protein-rich snack with natural sweetness.
Use as a dip for pretzels or apple slices for a healthier alternative to sugary snacks.
Incorporate into sandwiches, particularly those with turkey or ham, for a sweet contrast to savory meats.
Sustainability and Manufacturing
Crofter’s Organic prioritizes sustainable practices and biodiversity in their production of Just Fruit Apricot Spread. The company’s commitment extends from ingredient sourcing to manufacturing processes.
Sustainable Practices
Crofter’s Organic implements eco-friendly measures throughout their production chain. They support 8,500 acres of sustainable farmland, ensuring responsible land use for fruit cultivation. The company recycles 99% of raw materials’ packaging, significantly reducing waste.
Water conservation is a key focus. Crofter’s operates its own wastewater treatment plant, cutting water consumption by over 85%. This initiative showcases their dedication to resource efficiency.
The use of fair-trade sugar from the Green Cane Project demonstrates Crofter’s commitment to ethical sourcing. This choice supports soil restoration efforts, contributing to long-term agricultural sustainability.
Heritage and Biodiversity
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Apricot Spread features heritage fruit varieties. This approach helps preserve genetic diversity in fruit crops and supports traditional farming methods.
By selecting heritage apricots, Crofter’s contributes to maintaining a wider range of fruit varieties. This practice enhances biodiversity and helps protect against potential crop vulnerabilities.
The company’s focus on organic certification ensures their products meet strict standards. This commitment supports ecosystem health and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
Crofter’s emphasis on heritage fruits aligns with consumer interest in unique, traditional flavors. It also supports small-scale farmers who cultivate these specialized varieties.
Consumer Experience
Crofter’s Organic Just Fruit Apricot Spread offers a unique taste experience with its natural sweetness and convenient packaging. Users appreciate its health-conscious formulation and versatile applications.
Taste Profile
The Apricot Spread delivers a balanced flavor, neither too tart nor overly sweet. It captures the essence of ripe apricots with a smooth texture punctuated by fruit chunks. The spread’s sweetness comes from apple juice concentrate, avoiding refined sugars.
This approach results in a more natural, fruit-forward taste. Many consumers find it less cloying than traditional jams. The spread’s 98% fruit content ensures an authentic apricot flavor shines through in every bite.
Packaging and Storage
Crofter’s packages the Apricot Spread in 10-ounce (283-gram) glass jars. The transparent containers allow customers to see the product’s vibrant color and texture. Glass jars also help maintain freshness and prevent flavor transfer.
The spread is hot-filled and sealed, ensuring food safety and extending shelf life. Once opened, refrigeration is recommended to preserve quality. The jar’s wide mouth facilitates easy scooping and spreading.
Many users find the size convenient for both individual and family use. The resealable lid helps prevent spills and keeps the product fresh between uses.
Customer Reviews
Consumers often praise the spread’s natural taste and texture in reviews. Many appreciate the lack of refined sugar, viewing it as a healthier alternative to traditional jams. The product’s versatility is frequently mentioned, with users reporting its use on toast, in baked goods, and as a yogurt topping.
Some reviewers note the spread’s slightly looser consistency compared to sugar-heavy jams. This characteristic is generally seen as a positive, making it easier to spread. The authentic apricot flavor receives consistent praise.
A few customers mention the higher price point compared to conventional jams. However, many feel the quality and health benefits justify the cost. Overall satisfaction tends to be high among those seeking a fruit-forward, less sweet alternative to traditional spreads.