While California Prunes may not have been on the foodie ‘hot list’ before, they sure are starting to reach ‘trending’ status now, and with good reason!

Making their way into snacks and onto plates, California Prunes are surprisingly versatile as an anytime snack or an everyday ingredient for cooking and baking and offer incredible health benefits.

Canada is seeing a shift in how and what we should be eating, and prunes fit in with all of the latest food trends:

• High-fibre options that support gut health
• More plant-based options (mix of fresh, dried and frozen)
• Vegan or flexitarian diets
• “Free From” foods
• Emphasis on sustainability
• Clean labels

California Prunes contain dietary fibre and have a low glycemic index, which helps manage blood sugar levels. They are naturally sweet, and one serving of 5 prunes is only 100 calories.

 

“Studies show that prunes are rich in a variety of nutrients that enhance bone formation and protect against bone breakdown,” says Toronto-based dietitian Cara Rosenbloom. “Specifically, California Prunes contain vitamin K, which works synergistically with calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Prunes also contain antioxidants known as phenols, which slow down the rate of bone turnover.”

Rosenbloom also explains why prunes are great for digestive health. “Prunes contain fibre to help keep you regular. But prunes are unique because they also contain sorbitol, a type of sugar alcohol that’s not fully absorbed by the body. It acts like a sponge in the gut by attracting and holding water, which also helps with regularity.”

Prunes from California have an authentic flavour, unlike any other prunes in the world. Rosenbloom adds prunes to salads, cheese platters, chicken dishes, muffins and energy bites. “I love the consistent quality of California Prunes. I combine prunes with oats and nut butter, then roll up energy bites, which my kids love.”

California Prunes = Flavour + Versatility! Add some to your favourite meals and snacks:

• Blend them in smoothies, shakes, sauces, marinades, for a boost of flavour and texture.
• Chop them into pieces and add them to salads, overnight oats, and chia puddings for added vitamins and fibre.
• Purée them as alternative to butter, they will add moisture, texture, and natural sweetness to baking – No need for refined sugar!
• Eat them as a pre-workout snack for a boost of energy that will keep you feeling full and satisfied!
• Combine with nut butter and coconut flakes for a boost of energy and protein.

These little gems deserve some attention! And once you try them, you’ll definitely be craving more.

Visit CaliforniaPrunes.org for more inspiration!