Dried Prunes: A Guide to Choosing a Healthy Snack

Finding the perfect snack—one that's delicious, portable, and healthy—can often be a real challenge. Overwhelmed by an avalanche of overly sweet options and ultra-processed products, it's hard to make the right choice. Fortunately, there's a time-tested favourite cherished for generations?: the dried prune.

To help you navigate the options, our editorial team has analysed the market and is here to share its expert advice for choosing the best dried plums. This guide also presents our selection of the top products currently available, with a spotlight on delicious gems from the world of Asian dried fruits.

How to Choose the Best Dried Prunes??

Before we get to our top picks, here are the key factors to consider to find the perfect product.

1. Texture and Flavour: The Winning Combination

Texture is the first impression. Some people prefer them meltingly soft and chewy, while others like them firmer. Flavour is just as crucial: a fine balance between the fruit's natural sweetness and a hint of tartness is often the sign of a high-quality product. The drying methods and added ingredients, such as plum juice, play a crucial role here.

2. Scrutinise the Ingredient List

For a healthy snack, a quick look at the label is essential. Look out for added sugar and a long list of additives. A good rule of thumb? Prioritise products with a high fruit (plum) percentage. A content of 60% or more means the fruit is truly the star ingredient—a key criterion if you're looking for an option that promotes good digestion without a sugar overload.

3. Dare to Explore Asian Dried Fruit Varieties

Not all dried prunes are created equal. Asian culinary traditions, for example, are full of unique preparations. These Asian dried fruits are often enhanced with a touch of liquorice or other flavourings that give them a distinctive, sweet-and-slightly-salty taste. It's the perfect opportunity to rediscover this timeless classic.

Our Recommended Dried Prunes

After reviewing several options on the market, here are three products that stand out for their taste, ingredients, and convenience.

1. Mei House Dried Plums 135?g

Why it stands out: These plums follow the true tradition of Asian preserved fruits. Made from carefully selected fruits, they offer an authentic sweet flavour, enhanced by a subtle tart note. Their tender and chewy texture makes them a comforting classic.

Highlights:

• Balanced flavour: A perfect balance of sweet, tart, and a hint of liquorice.
• Meltingly soft texture:Soft prunes that delight the palate.
• On-the-go format: The 135g bag fits anywhere for a quick, delicious snack.

Who is it for? For fans of traditional Asian dried fruit flavours, perfect to enjoy on their own or to enhance a cup of tea.

2. HuaWeiHeng Dried Plums 280?g

Why it stands out: With a guaranteed plum content of 60% or more, these dried plums from HuaWeiHeng prioritise the fruit's authentic taste. The generous 280g size makes it an economical choice for the whole family.

Highlights:

• High fruit content: The ingredients guarantee an intense and authentic plum flavour.
• Low in fat: With only 0.8g of fat per 100g, it's a light and healthy snack.
• Family-sized pack: The large packaging is perfect for sharing or for stocking up.

Who is it for? This is the ideal choice for families or frequent consumers of prunes looking for excellent value. It's also a smart option for those watching their fat intake.

3. Liu Liu Prune Plum 160?g

Why it stands out: The Liu Liu Prune brand focuses entirely on the quality of its raw ingredients: California prunes, renowned for their plump flesh. Its unique feature? The addition of plum juice, which intensifies the taste and creates a unique sweet-and-sour flavour.

Highlights:

• Record-high fruit content: Made with 90.6% California prunes.
• Zero fat: A particularly light option for a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatility: Delicious on its own, it also works beautifully in cereals, yoghurts, or baked goods.

Who is it for? Ideal for purists seeking a product with maximum fruit concentration. Its versatility will also appeal to those who enjoy cooking with dried fruits.

Want to Explore Other Flavours?

Our selection focuses on dried prunes with a sweet and tart profile. If your curiosity leads you toward more adventurous flavours, such as saltier varieties, feel free to browse our dedicated category.

Discover our full range of salted plums and other dried fruits

Frequently Asked Questions About Dried Prunes

What are the benefits of dried prunes?

Dried prunes are best known for being rich in fibre. Fibre contributes to healthy bowel function, which is why prunes are often recommended to aid digestion. They also contain vitamins and minerals, making them a much more nutritious snack than most sweets.

How many dried prunes can you eat per day?

There's no hard and fast rule, but moderation is key. A small handful, about 4 to 6 prunes per day, is a reasonable portion for most adults. The best approach is to listen to your body and adjust the amount based on your own digestive tolerance.

How should you store dried prunes?

To preserve their texture and flavour, store your dried prunes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Once the package is opened, it's best to transfer them to an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing ambient moisture.