The nutritive value of food is affected by the dehydration process, vitamins A and C are destroyed by heat and air. Dried foods have more calories on a weight-for-weight basis because of the concentration of nutrients. With the addition of water or other fluids, dried vegetables quickly absorb the flavor and texture of their fresh or frozen counter parts in vegetable dishes.

Without any preparation or rehydration, dried vegetables can also be eaten as a low-calorie, healthful replacement for other crispy snacks.