Prunes

Prunes are dried plums. Short and simple. It is worth noting that in 2001 plum growers in the United States were authorized by the US FDA to call prunes as what they were, “dried plums.” This comes after years of a derogatory perception that prunes are for older people and are only eaten to relieve constipation. Some distributors are now discarding the use of the term “prunes” in favor of “dried plums.” But for continuity and ease of understanding, we will refer to them as prunes.

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Order: Rosales
• Family: Rosaceae
• Genus: Prunus
• Species: p. domestica
• Binomial name: Prunus domestica

Prune Trivia

• Over 70% of the world’s prunes are produced in California.
• Prunes are extremely rich in fiber and can be used to treat constipation.
• Ninety-nine percent of the United State’s prunes are produced in California.

Prune Buying Guide

Prunes are available in almost any supermarket. Look for them in either the baking aisle, snack aisle, or in the dried food aisle. They can be stored in plastic bags or canisters and are generally inexpensive. Prunes are also available in bulk food stores for purchase by the pound.

If you can choose prunes, look for plump and shiny prunes. Always check for signs of mold and if you can press them, try and press one to see if they’re still soft.

Also, check the packaging for any tears or damage that could have compromised the freshness of the prunes inside.

Prune Production & Farming in Texas

For obvious reasons, prune production in Texas is closely linked with its plum production. There is very minimal prune production in Texas (or anywhere else in the United States), as 99% of all prune production is done in California.

Small plum farms in Texas produce artisan prunes or dried plums, and they can sometimes be seen in farmers’ markets or specialty stores.

Pesticides:

Since plums have been on EWG’s Dirty Dozen list for pesticide residue, it’s safe to assume that many commercially produced prunes contain them as well.

On top of plum contamination, always check the prune packaging for added preservatives, which may have long-term health impacts.

Packaging:

Commercial Prunes are usually packed in resealable plastic bags, boxed with an inner plastic sleeve, or in canisters.

Some organic prune producers sell their products in farmers’ markets by weight, eliminating the need for industrial-grade single-use plastics and containers.

Enjoying Prunes

Eating prunes is simple, simply open up the container and enjoy them!

Storage:

Store prunes in their original packaging and always check the best before date. For opened packets or canisters, simply reseal them and store them in a cool, dark place for up to two months. Prunes can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to four months.

While prunes can be frozen to extend their shelf life, freezing compromises their texture.

Cooking:

While prunes are good direct from the bag, they can also be used to add a richness to many foods. Prunes can be stewed by themselves or added to other meat-based stews for added richness and flavor.

Prunes can also be added to cakes and other desserts to add a unique twist in flavor and texture.

Nutrition:

• Carbs
  • Despite having high sugar and carb content, prunes have a relatively low glycemic index. This makes it acceptable for people with diabetes to snack on.
  • Prunes also contain sorbitol, which acts as a laxative by drawing moisture from the lining of the large intestines and forcing the contents out.
• Fiber
  • Prunes are an excellent source of dietary fiber.
    • Prunes have long been considered the “go-to” dried fruit for the treatment of constipation.
    • The high fiber content in prunes also binds to cholesterol and sugar, effectively lowering the levels in the body by flushing them out.
    • Researchers from Texas A&M believe that prunes can help flush out gut toxins, effectively reducing the risk for colon cancer.
  • Vitamins and minerals:
    • Aside from fiber, prunes are also a great source of potassium.
    • Prunes are a good source of antioxidants which can help combat oxidative stress in the body and promotes cell-repair as well.
    • Prunes have also been found to contain Anthocyanins, which may reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.