All about PRUNES!
Welcome to the wonderful world of prunes! Today, we’re diving into how Mariani prunes are grown, where they come from, and why they deserve a starring role in your diet.
From Tree to Table: The Journey of a Mariani Prune
Did you know that every prune is a plum, but not all plums are a prune? It’s true! Prunes are simply dried plums, but not just any plums – they’re typically made from specific types of European plums. These varieties are known for their firm flesh and high sugar content, which makes them perfect for drying.
The process begins in orchards, where plum trees bloom with beautiful white flowers in the spring. As summer transitions to fall, the trees are heavy with ripe, juicy plums. Once harvested, these plums are carefully washed and laid out to dry naturally in the sun or in drying tunnels. This drying process concentrates their natural sugars and transforms them into the sweet, chewy prunes we know and love. No added sweeteners or flavors necessary!
Where in the World Are Mariani Prunes Grown?
Prunes are grown around the world, but here at Mariani we have a particular soft-spot for California prunes. It’s hard to imagine, but at one point, Silicon Valley was full of plum trees! As tech took over, farmers moved to the east where today, about eighty percent of Mariani Prunes are grown in the Sacramento Valley. A pruner farmer’s paradise, the Sacramento Valley’s rich soil, warm days and cool nights combine to create the ideal climate to grow and produce prunes. Mariani also has prune orchards in Yuba City, Marysville and Vacaville.
Why Prunes Are a Nutritional Goldmine¹
Prunes have been referred to as a superfood, and we couldn’t agree more! Here are just a few reasons why you should get your daily servings of prunes:
- Packed with Fiber: Prunes are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep things moving smoothly in your digestive tract. Just one serving can provide a significant portion of your daily fiber needs.
- High in Antioxidants: Prunes have antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation. These antioxidants also support healthy aging and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Bone Health: Believe it or not, prunes are great for your bones! They contain essential nutrients like vitamin K, potassium, and boron, which all contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bone density.
- Natural Sweetness: Prunes are a natural sweetener that can be used in various recipes to reduce the need for added sugars. Their natural sugars are released slowly into the bloodstream thanks to their fiber content, making them a great option for sustained energy.
Fun Ways to Enjoy Mariani Prunes
Ready to incorporate more prunes into your diet? We thought so! Here are a few fun and delicious ideas:
- Prune Smoothies: Blend prunes with bananas, yogurt, and a splash of juice for a tasty and nutritious smoothie.
- Prune Energy Bars: Mix prunes with nuts, oats, and a bit of honey to create homemade energy bars.
- Prune Cookies: Add chopped prunes to your favorite oatmeal cookie recipe for a chewy, sweet treat.
Here’s to PRUNES!
¹ https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-plums-prunes#TOC_TITLE_HDR_4