For conference catering, you can choose based on the declared fat content of the specific product: official product information lists 0.4 g of fat per 100 g for AH Hamsterchef Raisins and 0.5 g per 100 g for the Jumbo and PLUS apricots reviewed. A low fat content does not prove fat reduction; the European Commission sets a maximum of 3 g of fat per 100 g as a condition for the claim ‘low fat’ on solid foods, while a reduction claim requires separate substantiation.
You’re looking for dried fruit that’s low in fat, but also want to assess the sugar and energy content per portion served. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends a maximum of 20 g of dried fruit per day; this is dietary advice, not a catering limit.
You want to hand out pre-portioned snacks rather than portion them during the break. According to the product information, AH Hamsterchef Raisins come in ten 14 g boxes.
You’re serving fruit from opened packs and need to be able to tell attendees which allergens are present. The Jumbo and PLUS apricots reviewed contain sulphites, so check the information for the exact product.
First, check the difference between a low fat content and a fat reduction claim. Then tailor portions, allergen information and serving format to your event.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Fat content and claims | Compare the fat content per 100 g on the exact pack. Ask for separate substantiation if you want to make a fat reduction claim. | I want to compare fat content on the label without making a reduction claim I can’t substantiate. Around 33% of consumers prioritise fat content and accurate claim wording. |
| Portions, sugar and energy | Check the portion size, total sugars and energy separately. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends a maximum of 20 g of dried fruit per day; this is not a legal catering portion. | I want to plan how much is served, rather than looking only at the fat content per 100 g. Around 27% of consumers prioritise portion control. |
| Allergen information | Read the ingredients and allergen information for the product supplied. If serving unpackaged food, make sure attendees can find this information. | I want to cater for known allergen requirements at a buffet and keep information available. Around 20% of consumers give allergen information their highest priority. |
| Serving and packaging | Work out how many portions you need and compare packs based on the same amount per serving. Allow for portioning and storage as directed on the packaging. | I want to know how much preparation serving will involve and how many packs I’ll need. Around 20% of consumers prioritise ease of serving and packaging options. |
AH Hamsterchef Raisins lists 0.4 g of fat, but also 65 g of sugars and 326 kcal per 100 g. A low fat content alone tells you nothing about these other nutritional values.
Assess fat, sugar, energy and portion size separately using the product information.
PLUS lists 0 g of added sugars and 53.4 g of total sugars per 100 g. These are different figures.
Check both figures and also consider how much you’ll serve per portion.
The Jumbo and PLUS apricots reviewed contain sulphites. Jumbo also states that they may contain nuts, peanuts and sesame.
Check the information for the exact product and make allergen information available when serving unpackaged food.
AH Hamsterchef Raisins come in ten 14 g snack boxes, making them a good option if you want to serve pre-portioned snacks.
Jumbo Dried Pitted Apricots 250 g are an option if you want to put together your own snack portions.
Lidl sells dried fruit and nuts, including apricots, under its Alesto brand.
ALDI lists Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Apricots in a 250 g pack.
PLUS Dried Apricots 375 g are suitable for portioning yourself; the product page describes this version as vegan.
Dirk lists 1 de Beste Apricots 375 g for snacking and use in recipes.
This Joybuy selection includes dried jujubes, dates, soursop and raisins for snacks or buffet service. Product names and pack sizes vary.
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Pitted jujubes may suit a buffet where you want to serve dried fruit ready to eat.
The product name lists a 390 g pack.
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The 908 g pack may suit you if you want to portion out larger quantities of dates yourself.
The product name lists 908 g.
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The 908 g pack may suit you if you want to buy dates in larger quantities and portion them yourself.
The product name lists the M variety and a 908 g pack.
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Dried soursop may be a good choice if you want to offer a different kind of dried fruit alongside raisins or apricots.
If you’re keeping an eye on sugar, check the ingredients and nutritional information on the pack too.
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Raisins may suit a conference break where you want to serve dried fruit as a ready-to-eat snack.
The product name lists a 500 g pack.
No. A low declared fat content does not, by itself, demonstrate a reduction. According to the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, nutrition claims must comply with the applicable rules, and voluntary food information must not be misleading, confusing or ambiguous.
Information about allergens present must be available when serving unpackaged food. According to the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, this information can be provided in writing or verbally. Verbal information is subject to conditions, including that it is immediately available and recorded in writing or electronically for staff and inspectors. Make sure there is also a visible notice telling attendees where they can get the information.
No. The 20 g is the Netherlands Nutrition Centre’s daily dietary recommendation, not a legal catering portion. Use it as a guide when planning a modest portion, not as a guarantee that someone will stay within that recommendation for the day.
Follow the instructions on the pack supplied. The AH raisins and PLUS apricots reviewed say to store in a cool, dark and dry place. Don’t assume other varieties have the same storage instructions or shelf life once opened.
Compare both options based on the same amount per serving. Work out how many packs you’ll need and factor in your own containers and preparation separately. AH lists ten 14 g portions; the Jumbo and PLUS apricot packs reviewed contain 250 g and 375 g respectively.
