It’s finally fall! But no matter the season, it’s always best to eat and cook with fruits of the harvest. In autumn, fruits such as apples, cranberries, figs and pears are at their peak — and Traina Foods has so many ideas for how to use these delectable fall fruits, and shares all the healthiest benefits of each fruit.

• Apples
  The phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” isn’t just blowing smoke! This crispy fall fruit is packed full of antioxidants, flavonoids and dietary fiber. The nutrients and antioxidants in apples are believed to reduce risk of cancer, hypertension, diabetes and heart disease, according to MedicalNewsToday.com. The antioxidants found in apples have also been found to improve neurological care. Traina Foods Natural Dried Apple Rings are a perfect snack plain, dipped in peanut, almond or sunflower butter or diced into cool weather breads such as an apple cinnamon loaf.

• Cranberries
  Considered a superfood, these cape-less health heroes are known to lower risk of urinary tract infections, ulcers and gum disease, support digestive health, decrease inflammation associated with chronic disease and aging, and helps the gut protect against infection, according to the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association. Traina Foods delicious Cranberry Bran Muffins are a great way to get a serving of these tiny superheroes every day!

• Figs
  Figs are so versatile — dried versions are “in season” all year round, and fig spreads, jams or paste have becoming popular in healthy recipes as a way to reduce or omit granulated sugar. Due to their high levels of phenol antioxidants, fiber and nutrients, figs can help reduce indigestion, diabetes, cough, bronchitis, and asthma. Delicious eaten alone, figs are very complementary to meats and cheeses, making them a great addition to a charcuterie plate or cheese board, such as Traina Foods Cheese and Dried Fruit Board (with pears, too!)…

• Pears
  Speaking of pears, they are another healthy fall favorite. High in fiber, they can also improve digestive health, and protect the colon against cancer-causing agents and free radicals. They are also known to boost immunity, improve heart health and circulation in the body, as well as speed up the body’s ability to heal its wounds. For a delicious and healthy salad with all the benefits of this fall fruit, try Traina Foods Crunchy Green Salad California Sun Dried Fruit.

Produce is delicious at the peak of the harvest, but the wonderful thing about dried fruit is that it preserves the taste and nutrients of the fruit so it can be enjoyed for its peak flavor all year round. For more recipe ideas, visit www.trainafoods.com.