A grape -- a type of berry that grows on a vine -- is a vital ingredient in many foods and beverages from wine to jelly, and is refreshing when eaten on its own due to its high water content. A raisin is a dried grape, often eaten by the handful as a snack but also used in baking and in brewing alcoholic beverages.
How Raisins Are Made
According to the Big Site of Amazing Facts, people have been drying grapes as far back in history as ancient Egypt. The modern raisin industry selects seedless grapes from vines in grape orchards. Grapes with seeds also can be used, but they must go through an additional process where their seeds are pushed out by rubber rollers. After grapes are picked, they are left to dry in the sun for approximately two weeks. The drying process is completed with several days in a bin called a sweatbox before the raisins are washed, packed and shipped.
Grape Facts
More than 50 varieties of grape exist, according to FoodReference.com. Grapes can be divided into two categories: American and European. In the United States, the majority of grapes is grown in California. Fresh grapes typically last no more than three days in the refrigerator before beginning to brown and shrivel, so they should be consumed quickly while they are still delicious. Frozen grapes are easy to peel by rinsing in lukewarm water until their skins split.
Raisin Facts
In comparison to the luscious grape -- which is about 80 percent water, according to FoodReference.com -- a raisin contains just 15 percent water. This gives raisins a higher calorie count and a more concentrated nutritional value. Raisins are a top source of antioxidants and are full of potassium and dietary fiber, according to the California Raisins website. Do not feed raisins to your dog, however. According to Snopes.com -- which debunks rumors and urban legends -- the Animal Poison Control Center has verified the rumor that raisins and grapes are hazardous to dogs.
Cooking with Grapes and Raisins
The home cook should stock a few boxes of raisins in the pantry and a bunch of grapes in the vegetable crisper. Raisins can be additions to salads, rice dishes and baked bread. Grapes -- once they have been blended and strained -- can be made into jelly. If you want to prevent your grape jelly from getting moldy, seal it with two-piece canning lids and immerse it in a simmering water bath for five minutes, suggests FoodReference.com.
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