Prunes, Pitted (Dried Plums)

Prunus domestica

Origin / Harvest:

• USA / September–October

Description & History

California prunes are simply sun–ripened, juicy plums that have been dried.

Prunes are fruit with an ancient heritage. Western Asia, more specifically an area near the Caucasus Mountains bordering the Caspian Sea, is the recorded point of origin. From there, prunes were carried westward and eventually found their way into South Central and Western Europe and the Balkans where they have thrived ever since.

Prune trees were introduced to North American soil in 1856 by Louis Pellier, a French nurseryman who had come to California in 1848 in search of gold. After his unsuccessful mining venture, Pellier purchased land in the fertile Santa Clara Valley and proceeded to cultivate the D’Agen prune. Today the D’Agen prune is known as the California French Prune and constitutes approx. 99% of the state's production. California produces practically all of the United States production and roughly 70% of the world supply.

Prunes are sold with and without pits. Prune counts are expressed as two sets of numbers which represent the fewest and greatest number of prunes per pound. For example 50/60 prunes mean than there will be no fewer than 50 and no greater than 60 prunes per pound. The higher the numbers, the smaller the size of the prune.

We offer pitted prunes employing one of two pitting processes. Ashlock Pitted is used mostly for sizes 60/70 and larger. This process leaves the body of the prune largely intact. Elliott Pitted is used mostly for sizes 70/80 and smaller. This process leaves the prune somewhat more ‘mangled’.

Uses

Prunes are a healthy, high–energy snack by themselves. Prunes can also be stewed or pureed as an ingredient in meat and traditional Middle Eastern dishes.

Nutrition

Renowned for their high fiber content, prunes are considered part of healthy diet to maintain digestive regularity. Prunes also provide antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber, iron, and vitamin A that may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Dried Prune