Different Types of Raisins Exported from India

India is one of the leading producers and exporters of raisins, known for their natural sweetness, rich taste, and consistent quality. From sun-dried traditional varieties to premium processed raisins, Indian exporters supply a wide range to global markets. 

Whether you are an importer, wholesaler, or food manufacturer, understanding the Types of Raisins available from India helps you choose the right product for your business. 

In this blog, we explore the most popular types of raisins exported from India, their features, uses, and why they are in high demand worldwide.

Overview of Raisin Export from India

According to Export Import Data, India is a growing player in the global raisin market and currently ranks 11th in the world for raisin production, with output ranging between 55,000 and 65,000 metric tonnes annually.

In terms of exports, India shipped over 42.01 million kilograms of raisins during 2023-2024, supplying to multiple international markets.

• Major producing state: Maharashtra (contributes over 75% of total production)
• Top export destinations: Morocco, Russia, Romania, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam
• Key export markets (broader): Middle East, Europe, USA, and Asia
• Common export varieties: Golden, Black, Green, Brown, and other premium Types of Raisins

Types of Raisins Exported from India

Here is a simple overview of the most popular Types of Raisins exported from India:

1. Golden Raisins

Golden raisins are among the most demanded Types of Raisins in international markets. They are processed using controlled drying methods to maintain their bright and attractive color.

Features of Golden Raisins:

• Attractive golden color
• Soft texture
• Mild sweetness

Uses of Golden Raisins:

• Cakes, cookies, and bakery products
• Premium food packaging

2. Black Raisins

Black raisins are one of the most traditional and widely consumed Types of Raisins. They are naturally sun-dried, which gives them their deep black color, rich flavor, and high nutritional value without the use of chemicals.

Features of Black Raisins:

• Rich in iron and antioxidants
• Strong, naturally sweet taste
• No chemical processing

Uses of Black Raisins:

• Health foods
• Traditional medicine
• Daily snacks

3. Green Raisins

Green raisins are a premium variety among the Raisins, known for their long shape, attractive color, and unique flavor. They are carefully dried under controlled conditions to preserve their natural green shade and enhance their taste.

Features of Green Raisins:

• Long and slender shape
• Light green to pale green color
• Soft and slightly chewy texture
• Sweet with a mild, tangy flavor

Health Benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants that support overall health
• Good source of natural sugars for instant energy
• Contains essential minerals like potassium and iron
• Supports digestion due to natural fiber content

4. Brown Raisins

Brown raisins are the most commonly consumed among all Types of Raisins worldwide due to their affordability, natural taste, and wide availability. They are typically produced by drying grapes naturally in the sun, which gives them their light to dark brown color.

Features of Brown Raisins:

• Light to dark brown colour
• Soft and slightly chewy texture
• Naturally sweet with a balanced flavor
• Available in different sizes and grades

Health Benefits of Brown Raisins:

• Good source of dietary fiber for digestion
• Provides natural energy due to high glucose content
• Contains essential minerals like iron and potassium
• Supports overall health when consumed regularly

5. Malayar Raisins

Malayar raisins are a popular variety among the Types of Raisins, especially in the food processing and confectionery industry. They are small in size and known for their uniform quality, making them ideal for large-scale use.

Features of Malayar raisins:

• Small and uniform size
• Brown to brownish-orange color
• Soft texture with mild sweetness
• Available in graded qualities (AAA, AA, A)

Health Benefits:

• Good source of natural energy
• Contains essential nutrients like iron and fiber
• Supports digestion due to its fiber content

6. Sultana Raisins

Sultana raisins are a popular variety among the Types of Raisins, known for their soft texture, light color, and naturally juicy taste. They are typically made from seedless grapes and processed carefully to retain moisture, which gives them their signature softness.

Features of Sultana Raisins:

• Light yellow to golden-brown color
• Soft, plump, and juicy texture
• Seedless and easy to eat
• Mildly sweet with a slight tangy flavor

Health Benefits:

• Provides quick energy due to natural sugars
• Good source of fiber for better digestion
• Contains essential minerals like potassium and iron
• Supports overall health when included in a balanced diet

7. Thompson Seedless Raisins

Thompson Seedless raisins are one of the most widely exported Raisins from India and are considered the standard variety in global trade. They are made from high-quality seedless grapes and are known for their uniform size, consistent color, and reliable taste.

Features of Thompson Seedless raisins:

• Completely seedless
• Light golden to brown color
• Uniform size and shape
• Soft texture with natural sweetness

Health Benefits of Thompson Seedless Raisins:

• Rich in natural sugars for quick energy
• Good source of fiber for digestion
• Contains antioxidants that support overall health
• Provides essential minerals like iron and potassium

8. Sonaka Raisins

Sonaka raisins are a premium category among the Types of Raisins, valued for their large size, attractive appearance, and superior quality. They are made from carefully selected Sonaka grapes, which are known for producing bigger and sweeter raisins compared to standard varieties.

Features of Sonaka raisins:

• Larger size than regular raisins
• Slightly darker golden to brown color
• Plump and soft texture
• Naturally sweet and rich taste

Health Benefits of Sonaka Raisins:

• Provides quick energy due to natural sugars
• Contains fiber that supports digestion
• Rich in essential minerals like iron and potassium
• Helps maintain overall health when consumed regularly

These raisins are preferred by buyers looking for high-quality products.

Conclusion

India offers a wide range of types of Raisins to meet global demand, from golden and black to premium varieties like Sonaka and Thompson Seedless. Each type has unique features, taste, and applications, making them suitable for different industries such as bakery, snacks, and health foods.

With strong production, quality control, and competitive pricing, Indian raisins continue to dominate international markets. Choosing the right type and a trusted supplier like NR Farm products can help importers ensure consistent quality and long-term business success.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which raisins are best in India?
Ans: Thompson Seedless and Golden raisins are considered the best due to quality, taste, and high demand in export markets.

2. Which type of raisins are healthiest?
Ans: Black raisins are the healthiest as they are rich in iron, antioxidants, and support digestion and overall health.

3. Which raisin is better, black or yellow?
Ans: Both are good; black raisins offer more nutrients, while yellow (golden) raisins are preferred for taste and appearance