Abstract: A reduced-step method of producing puffed fruit pieces is provided. The invention is a two-part drying process, where the fruit is oven baked and then popped. The crispy fruit pieces can be flavored using flavorings. From the novel infusion-free and reduced step process the fruit pieces contain nutrients of their fresh fruit essence, making them a healthful and desirable snack. The method includes drying fruit pieces in a wind oven until a specified moisture-content of the fruit pieces are reached, then storing the fruit pieces in a refrigerated environment. The chilled fruit pieces are flavored, and then dehydrated in a low-pressure dehydration chamber until the fruit pieces change from a first state to a second state, and immediately packaged in a nitrogen-filled hermetically sealed package.

Abstract: A reduced-step method of producing puffed apple chips made from USDA certified organic apples is provided. The invention is a two-part drying process, where the apples are oven baked and then popped. The crispy apple chips can be flavored using flavorings such as natural, apple cinnamon, caramel, peach, green tea and chili, for example. From the novel infusion-free and reduced step process the apple pieces contain nutrients of their fresh fruit essence, making them a healthful and desirable snack. The method includes drying apple pieces in a wind oven until a specified moisture-content of the apple pieces is reached, then storing the apple pieces in a refrigerated environment. The chilled apple pieces are then flavored, and then dehydrated in a low-pressure dehydration chamber until the apple pieces change from a first state to a second state, and immediately packaged in a nitrogen-filled hermetically sealed package.