Evaluation of the quality of dried fruits imported and consumed in Morocco (case of apricots and raisins)

The dried fruit sector in Morocco can be divided into two categories: the cooperatives that focus on producing and marketing conventional dried fruits, and the newer industrial sector that is primarily involved in packaging and marketing imported dried fruits. The industrial sector is growing rapidly due to the expansion of retail networks. However, Morocco heavily relies on imported dried fruits, and there is a significant gap in domestic production. Limited information is available about the quality and conformity of these dried fruits. No specific study has been conducted on physicochemical, biochemical and microbiological quality. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the quality and conformity of these imported dried fruits, particularly apricots and raisins. To address this, a survey was conducted in the Fez-Meknes region of Morocco to understand consumer behavior towards dried fruits, resulting in 623 responses. Additionally, 60 random samples (500g per sample, 30 dried apricots and 30 dried raisins) were collected from the same region to assess their physicochemical, biochemical, and microbiological quality. The safety of these products for consumption was also evaluated through the identification of contaminants using Maldi-Tof-MS analysis. The main results show that 50% of apricots and 30% of raisins presented at least one nonconformity with respect to international standards, either in water content or residual SO₂ content, and the presence of Enterobacter in some samples further indicates a failure to adhere to proper handling, hygiene, and storage conditions for dried fruits.