What is the Difference Between Thompson Seedless Raisins and Golden Raisins?

Thompson raisins are available for us to enjoy today because of a man named William Thompson. In 1872, he planted a cultivar from a nursery in New York in Marysville, California. He shared cuttings with John Onstott, who shipped millions of cuttings across California. Today, thousands of acres in California are dedicated to growing Thompson grapes. Most regular and golden raisins we enjoy today are the Thompson variety.

Differences

Thompson raisins are sun-dried. The grapes turn brown, then black as they dry. Golden raisins are dried in a dehydrator where the temperature and humidity level can be controlled. Sulfur dioxide is used to prevent them from turning black. Regular raisins are chewy whereas golden raisins are moister and plumper. Organic golden raisins are obtained from grapes that have been grown by farmers that do not use banned chemicals or pesticides on their grapes. The grapes are dried in the sun without the use of sulfur dioxide.

Making a Choice

Organic golden raisins are an excellent choice when you’re looking for a healthy snack item for kids and adults. Thompson seedless raisins both provide health benefits. They are nutritional treats that are convenient to always have on hand. Thompson raisins can be eaten as a snack or used in numerous sweet and savory recipes. Cooks, especially bakers, prefer using the plumper, somewhat more flavorful Golden Thompson seedless raisins for culinary use. When used in baking or in salads, dips, or most other recipes, it is best to soak the dried fruit before using them. Soaking them in hot water for about 15 minutes will make them plump up and they’ll be ready for use in a recipe. You can soak raisins in other types of liquid such as such as wine and different flavors of fruit juices.

Grab and Go Nutrition

Raisins are an ideal grab-and-go snack that can boost your health. They are a good source of antioxidants and iron. They support heart health, bone health, and digestive health. They can easily be tossed into a snack mix or trail mix, or eaten by the handful while you’re traveling. A supply of this tasty dried fruit can be stashed in a desk drawer, backpack, lunch box, purse, or locker to grab as an energizing snack when needed.