Differences between artisanal and industrial roasted nuts

What are the main differences in the process?

The main differences between the artisanal roasting and the industrial reside in the process control , the quality of nuts and the techniques used .

1 Roasting method

Handcrafted:

• Hand or small-batch roasting. Rotary kilns or drum roasters are generally used at lower, controlled temperatures.
• The process is slower, allowing for more precise control of temperature and roasting time. This helps preserve the natural flavor of the nut and prevents overcooking.

Industrial:

• Mass roasting, using large automated belt machines that allow large quantities of nuts to be processed at once.
• The temperatures tend to be higher and faster to maximize efficiency, which can lead to more even cooking but also the risk of overheating nuts and lose nutrients and flavor.

2 Temperature and time control

Handcrafted:

• Temperature control is manual and more precise, allowing for more personalized roasting based on the type of nut.
• Roasting time is typically longer, allowing flavors to develop better and more nutrients to be preserved.

Industrial:

• Roasting temperature and time are automated and optimized for large-scale production, which may be less flexible in terms of batch customization.
• The processes are faster but less careful with the nuances of flavor and the preservation of some nutrients.

3. Quality of nuts

Handcrafted:

• Higher quality nuts are usually used, selected manually or with stricter control over their origin and size.
• The process is more careful, so the nuts tend to maintain a better texture, flavor, and nutrients.

Industrial:

• In industrial production, quality can vary depending on the volume and capacity of the factory. More standardized or lower-quality nuts can be used to optimize production costs.
• The process is more oriented towards efficiency than personalizing the quality of the final product.

4. Flavor and texture

Handcrafted:

• The flavor tends to be richer and more varied due to less manipulation and manual control of the roasting process.
• The texture is crispier and more natural since the toasting is softer and more careful.

Industrial:

• The flavor may be more homogeneous and less characteristic, due to the standardization of the process.
• Rapid processing can affect the texture and cause nuts to become harder or have a more uniform and less pronounced flavor.

What additives are used in each case?

Handcrafted in a rotating drum:

• No additional oils are used, preserving the natural quality of the nuts.
• Lesser amounts of salt and other additives are used, prioritizing a more natural approach.

Industrial:

• It is common for oils to be added (especially in the case of salted or flavored nuts) to enhance flavor or texture, which can alter the nutritional composition.
• Additives and preservatives can be used to improve shelf life and flavor over time.

How does each roast affect the final price? And the final quality?

Affects the final cost:

Handcrafted:

• Production costs are higher due to labor, more precise control, and the use of higher-quality materials.
• The production scale is limited, as the process cannot handle large volumes.

Industrial:

• Production costs are lower due to automation and large-scale production.
• Scalability is much greater, allowing large quantities to be produced in less time.

Quality

Handcrafted:

• Higher quality nuts are usually used, selected manually or with stricter control over their origin and size.
• The process is more careful, so the nuts tend to maintain a better texture, flavor, and nutrients.

Industrial:

• In industrial production, quality can vary depending on the volume and capacity of the factory. More standardized or lower-quality nuts can be used to optimize production costs.
• The process is more oriented towards efficiency than personalizing the quality of the final product.

What differences are there in the storage time?

The storage time of roasted nuts can be affected by various factors, including the roasting method, the type of nut, and the presence of oils or additives.

Storage time:

Artisanal roasting

• Artisanal roasted nuts, because they are not subject to the addition of oils or preservatives, tend to have a shorter shelf life compared to industrial products.
• Oxidation : Because no oils are added to preserve their freshness or texture, the natural oils in nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios, oxidize more quickly. This can result in a rancid flavor if not stored properly.
• Storage conditions: If kept in an airtight container and in a cool place (preferably refrigerated), they can stay fresh for 1 to 2 months after roasting, depending on the type of nut.

Industrial roasting

Industrially roasted nuts tend to have a longer shelf life. This is due to several factors:

• Use of preservatives and oils: Additional oils are often added to improve texture and preserve flavor, which can delay the oxidation process.
• More efficient packaging: Industrial nuts are usually packaged in airtight containers or with modified atmosphere technology, which reduces exposure to air and maintains freshness for longer.
• Sealing and preservation: They use packaging that protects against moisture, oxygen, and light, which helps keep nuts in optimal condition for longer.

Factors affecting conservation:

Artisanal roasting

• Packaging : In artisanal roasting, if proper packaging, such as atmosphere-controlled bags, is not used, the nuts tend to lose their freshness more quickly.
• Temperature and humidity : Exposure to air and moisture are important factors. In warm or humid environments, nuts can become rancid more quickly.

Industrial roasting

• Presence of additional oils and additives: While this may help preserve the product for longer, it may also alter the flavor or texture of the nuts.
• Faster roasting process : Although industrial roasting may be faster, the more consistent temperature control and specialized packaging mean the final product can better withstand the test of time.

In general, roasted nuts from artisanal production have a shorter shelf life due to the lack of preservatives and less optimized packaging, while industrial roasting They benefit from specialized additives, oils, and packaging that significantly extend their shelf life. However, flavor and texture of artisanal nuts may be superior, but they should be consumed more quickly to enjoy their freshness.

How to identify a quality handmade product?

A quality artisanal dried fruit is one that has been made with fresh ingredients, careful processes and offers a natural and authentic flavor . The transparency about its origin and the simplicity in its packaging are also key features that distinguish it.

Additional benefits of artisanal nut roasting

1. Lower environmental impact:

Artisanal roasting is typically done in smaller, lower-energy facilities compared to large industrial factories. Furthermore, many artisanal companies adopt sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy or biodegradable packaging.

2. Production on demand:

Artisanal nuts are typically roasted in small batches and on demand, ensuring greater freshness and flavor at the time of purchase.

3. Adaptation to specific diets:

In the artisanal process, it's easier to avoid ingredients like salt, oils, or added sugars, making it ideal for people with dietary restrictions or those looking for healthier options.

4. Greater focus on traceability:

Artisanal producers often work directly with local farmers or cooperatives, ensuring stricter control over the origin and quality of the nuts.

5. Innovation in personalized flavors:

Artisanal roasting allows you to experiment with unique and personalized flavors, such as specific spice blends or natural smoking techniques, which are not common in industrial products.

Conclusion

Artisanal roasting stands out for its focus on quality, authenticity, and customization of the final product. It offers significant advantages for those seeking a superior culinary experience with intense flavors, crispy textures, and preserved nutritional benefits. Although it has a shorter shelf life than industrial products due to the absence of preservatives, its freshness and authenticity make it a preferred choice for our demanding consumers.