Best Dried Prunes to Fullfill Your Needs
Introduction
Dried prunes, also known as dried plums, are a nutritious and tasty snack. They are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and can be enjoyed on their own or added to recipes. If you're looking to buy some dried prunes, you may be overwhelmed by the variety of options available. Here are some tips to help you choose the best dried prunes.
Look for plump, moist prunes
When choosing dried prunes, look for ones that are plump and moist. Avoid prunes that are hard, wrinkled, or have a dull color. These may be old or have been stored in poor conditions, and will not be as flavorful or enjoyable to eat.
To test for moisture, gently squeeze the prune between your fingers. It should feel slightly soft, but not too mushy or sticky. If the prune feels dry or brittle, it may not be fresh or of good quality.
Consider the variety and origin of the prunes
Dried prunes are made from different varieties of plums, and each variety has its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular varieties of prunes include the Italian prune plum, the Bull's Heart plum, and the Blue Damson plum.
In addition to variety, the origin of the prunes can also affect their flavor and quality. Prunes from California are known for their sweet and juicy flavor, while prunes from France are prized for their rich and complex taste. When choosing dried prunes, consider the variety and origin to find ones that will suit your taste preferences.
Check for added sweeteners and preservatives
Many brands of dried prunes contain added sweeteners, such as sugar, corn syrup, or honey, to make them more palatable. While these sweeteners can improve the flavor of the prunes, they can also add calories and sugar to your diet. If you are watching your sugar intake, look for prunes that are unsweetened or have minimal added sweeteners.
In addition to sweeteners, some brands of dried prunes may contain preservatives, such as sulfur dioxide, to extend their shelf life. These preservatives can cause allergic reactions in some people, so it's important to check the ingredient list and avoid prunes with added preservatives if you have any sensitivities.
Choose organic and fair trade prunes
If you want to support sustainable and ethical farming practices, look for organic and fair trade certified prunes. Organic prunes are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can harm the environment and the farmers who work with them. Fair trade prunes are grown by farmers who are paid fair wages and work in safe and healthy conditions. By choosing organic and fair trade prunes, you can enjoy your snack knowing that it has been produced in a responsible and sustainable way.
Conclusion
Dried prunes are a nutritious and tasty snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to recipes. When choosing dried prunes, look for plump and moist ones, consider the variety and origin, check for added sweeteners and preservatives, and choose organic and fair trade options if possible. With these tips, you can find the best dried prunes to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are dried prunes good for you?
Yes, dried prunes are good for you. They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent bone loss and promote healthy bone density and formation. Prunes also have higher amounts of vitamin K, which is beneficial for bone health.
2. What do prunes do for your bowels?
Prunes, or dried plums, are rich in fiber. The fiber in prunes increases the bulk of your stool, aiding in regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. They are known for their natural laxative effects.
3. Are prunes too high in sugar?
Prunes are a healthy carbohydrate option, especially for people with diabetes. They do not cause a spike in blood sugar levels and may even help control blood sugar due to certain properties like sorbitol, pectin, and neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids.
4. When should you not eat prunes?
If consumed in excess, the insoluble fiber in prunes can cause or worsen diarrhea. Therefore, it is advised to avoid prunes when experiencing diarrhea. Some individuals have reported diarrhea after consuming prunes or prune juice.
5. Should you eat prunes in the morning or at night?
Eating prunes before going to bed has been associated with lower blood pressure and reduced plaque buildup, bad cholesterol, and inflammation. The potassium content in prunes helps maintain proper nerve and muscle function and helps control blood pressure.
6. Do prunes clean your gut?
Prunes help keep the intestinal tract clear, promoting better bowel movements. They are considered a natural laxative and can contribute to a healthy gut.
7. How quickly do prunes work as a laxative?
After consuming prune juice, it can take 1-3 hours to feel the urge to have a bowel movement. In severe cases of constipation, it may take up to a day or longer for prune juice to relax the digestive tract and initiate a bowel movement. Studies on prune juice for constipation often involve a two-week consumption period.
It is recommended to stick to one serving of prunes, which is about six dried plums, per day. If chronic constipation persists or prunes do not resolve the issue, it is best to consult a doctor for professional advice.
9. Are prunes good or bad for diabetics?
Prunes are a healthful choice for people with diabetes due to their fiber content and lower glycemic index. They can be enjoyed as a quick snack or used in homemade trail mix with nuts.
10. Are prunes OK for diabetics to eat?
Both sweet and sour prunes have a low sugar content, making them suitable for people with diabetes. Sour prunes, in particular, have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels. Including prunes in a diabetic diet can provide various health benefits and potentially reduce complications.
Editor's Notes
During our dried prune research, we found 24 dried prune products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 44,314 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dried prunes list. We found that most customers choose dried prunes with an average price of $19.40.
The dried prunes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dried prunes, including Sun-Maid, Looney Pruney, Terrasoul Superfoods, Signature's, Kirkland Signature. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
