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Prunes vs Plums - Health Impact and Nutrition Comparison

Article author photo Christelle  Tchakerian by Christelle Tchakerian | Last updated on March 11, 2024
Medically reviewed by Arpi Gasparyan Article author photo Arpi Gasparyan
Prunes
vs
Plum

Summary

Plums and prunes are health-promoting and disease-preventing foods. The difference between their glycemic indices is 24 units, with lower prunes.

Prunes have higher amounts of macronutrients, fiber, minerals, specifically iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, and phosphorus, vitamins, particularly A, E, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and amino acids. Prunes have a longer shelf life since they are dehydrated.

Introduction

Plums are fruits in the Prunus subgenus. To date, 40 registered species of the plum fruit are documented, of which the European and Japanese plums are of the most considerable economic importance (1).

The dehydrated form of specific plum cultivars is called a prune. Drying leads to the loss of the plum's volatile components and the appearance of new compounds. Prunus domestica, Prunus salicina, and Prunus americana are three plum species contributing to the production of most prunes (2). The carbohydrate composition in these plums allows the fruit to undergo dehydration while avoiding fermentation (3).

Plums are mostly eaten fresh, while prunes are eaten dried or juiced.

Prunes and plums have been used as food and medicine for centuries. A simplistic analysis lets us explore how these two items are nutritionally similar or different.

Nutrition

The nutritional content of plums and prunes is summarized below using visual aids.

Prunes have approximately five times the amount of calories in plums. Moreover, prunes have a higher carbohydrate, sugar, starch, fat, protein, fiber, and polyunsaturated fat content due to a lower water percentage. The glycemic index of prunes is lower than that of plums.

Plums are more abundant in saturated and monounsaturated fats than prunes.

The anticipated cholesterol and trans fat content of prunes and plums are null.

Regarding essential amino acid content, prunes are richer in tryptophan, threonine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, valine, and histidine.

Vitamins

Prunes contain more vitamins A, E, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6. On the other hand, plums contain 15 times more vitamin C and are higher in folate than prunes.

Both items contain no vitamin D.

In short, prunes are more abundant in vitamins.

Vitamin Comparison

Vitamin comparison score is based on the number of vitamins by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Prunes
9
Vitamin C Vit. C Vitamin A Vit. A Vitamin E Vit. E Vitamin D Vit. D Vitamin B1 Vit. B1 Vitamin B2 Vit. B2 Vitamin B3 Vit. B3 Vitamin B5 Vit. B5 Vitamin B6 Vit. B6 Vitamin B12 Vit. B12 Vitamin K Vit. K Folate Folate Choline Choline 2% 47% 8.6% 0% 13% 43% 35% 25% 47% 0% 149% 3% 5.5%
Plum
2
Vitamin C Vit. C Vitamin A Vit. A Vitamin E Vit. E Vitamin D Vit. D Vitamin B1 Vit. B1 Vitamin B2 Vit. B2 Vitamin B3 Vit. B3 Vitamin B5 Vit. B5 Vitamin B6 Vit. B6 Vitamin B12 Vit. B12 Vitamin K Vit. K Folate Folate Choline Choline 32% 21% 5.2% 0% 7% 6% 7.8% 8.1% 6.7% 0% 16% 3.8% 1%
Contains more Vitamin AVitamin A +126.4%
Contains more Vitamin EVitamin E +65.4%
Contains more Vitamin B1Vitamin B1 +82.1%
Contains more Vitamin B2Vitamin B2 +615.4%
Contains more Vitamin B3Vitamin B3 +351.3%
Contains more Vitamin B5Vitamin B5 +212.6%
Contains more Vitamin B6Vitamin B6 +606.9%
Contains more Vitamin KVitamin K +829.7%
Contains more CholineCholine +431.6%
Contains more Vitamin CVitamin C +1483.3%
Contains more FolateFolate +25%
~equal in Vitamin D ~0µg
~equal in Vitamin B12 ~0µg

Minerals

Prunes are richer in minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, and phosphorus.

Plums have a lower sodium content, with the difference being 2mg.

Mineral Comparison

Mineral comparison score is based on the number of minerals by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Prunes
9
Magnesium Magnesium Calcium Calcium Potassium Potassium Iron Iron Copper Copper Zinc Zinc Phosphorus Phosphorus Sodium Sodium Manganese Manganese Selenium Selenium 29% 13% 65% 35% 94% 12% 30% 0.26% 39% 1.6%
Plum
1
Magnesium Magnesium Calcium Calcium Potassium Potassium Iron Iron Copper Copper Zinc Zinc Phosphorus Phosphorus Sodium Sodium Manganese Manganese Selenium Selenium 5% 1.8% 14% 6.4% 19% 2.7% 6.9% 0% 6.8% 0%
Contains more MagnesiumMagnesium +485.7%
Contains more CalciumCalcium +616.7%
Contains more PotassiumPotassium +366.2%
Contains more IronIron +447.1%
Contains more CopperCopper +393%
Contains more ZincZinc +340%
Contains more PhosphorusPhosphorus +331.3%
Contains more ManganeseManganese +475%
Contains more SeleniumSelenium +∞%
Contains less SodiumSodium -100%

Health Impact

Digestion

Section reviewed by gastroenterologist Arpi Gasparyan Article author photo Arpi Gasparyan

Prune's high fiber and polyol content contribute to its laxative effects (1). Therefore, it can be beneficial for constipated people, specifically for mild constipation. The high fiber content also helps people stay fuller for longer.

Mental Health

Studies have pointed out the anti-anxiety effect that prunes have (2). Oxidative stress is correlated with anxiety problems, so the anxiolytic effect of prunes may be mainly through some contents that ameliorate the antioxidant defense mechanism (2).

The plum fruit has been shown to enhance cognition and memory (2).

Cancer

Numerous studies have shown that pruning suppresses specific human cancer cell growth (2). It is hypothesized that the anticancer action of prunes is due to its antioxidant compounds (2).

A study has shown that plums contain many types of phytochemicals that prevent cell proliferation in breast cancer cell lines (5).

Cardiovascular Health

Section reviewed by cardiologist Astghik Grigoryan Article author photo Astghik Grigoryan

Clinical studies have demonstrated that including plums and prunes in the diet may help prevent and treat hypercholesterolemia and arterial hypertension. They are beneficial for cardiovascular health due to their high fiber and potassium content and their antioxidant properties.

Regular intake of prune juice and extract can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by preventing the oxidation of LDL ("bad" cholesterol). Similarly, daily consumption of plums can increase the concentration of tocopherol in plasma, which is also crucial in lowering the risk of atherosclerosis (2,6).

Studies suggest that prunes and plums may have cardioprotective and antihypertensive effects by inhibiting ACE, similar to antihypertensive medications like Captopril, Lisinopril, and Perindopril (7,8).

Muscle Mass

Plums contain polyphenols that encourage muscle formation (4). This is particularly important in certain chronic diseases, where muscle wasting is a problem.

History and Origin

Historical data show that Prunus domestica and other Eurasian plum species contributed to the development of primitive European societies (9).

The plum was first documented in the 7th century BC. Historical evidence suggests that plums were a result of human cultivation and selection. Prunus domestica is thought to have originated from an area between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea; however, determining the exact origin of plums remains a matter of debate (9). It can only be inferred that the early varieties of the plum originated in Western Asia and traveled to Europe and consequently reaching North America (10).

Culinary Tips

Prunes and plums are considered versatile ingredients to work with. They can be eaten as is, pureed, juiced, or cooked. They are a great addition to your breakfasts, snacks, smoothies, proteins, and salads. Because of their sweet taste, they can be used in deserts to help reduce the amount of added refined sugar. Pureed prunes can help partially replace the fat content of baked desserts (3).

Storing Conditions

Unripe (usually green-colored) plums should sit at room temperature away from sunlight until they ripen (usually turn purple).

Ripe plums are fresh fruits that can quickly go rancid. Store them in the fridge to keep plums fresh for a few days. Store plums in the freezer to conserve them for several months (up to 6).

Prunes should be stored in cool and dry conditions in air-tight containers. They can be stored in the freezer to increase shelf life up to 12 months.

How Should You Buy Them?

Ripe plums are hard but can be gently squeezed. Unripe ones are very firm. Be careful of signs of cuts, discoloration, or decomposition.

Prunes should be shiny. They can be pitted or not. Beware of the presence of mold, added sugar, or any additive.

Consumption and Production

China is the world's leading producer and consumer of plums, producing around 6,676,142 tons per year and composing around 59% of total consumption (11).

The largest exporter of prunes in 2018 was Chile. The largest importer was Germany (12).

Recommendations

The amount of fruit needed per day widely varies depending on age, sex, level of physical activity, health status, weight, metabolic rate, and many other criteria.

According to the USDA, one cup of fruit (or 100% fruit juice) or half a cup of dried fruit can be considered one cup from the Fruit Group. An individual should get a serving of one to two cups daily from the Fruit Group.

One cup of raw or cooked plum equals three medium or two large pieces or one cup of 100% plum juice. For prunes, the recommendation will be half a cup per day.

These amounts apply to individuals who get less than 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily. Those physically more active may have higher caloric needs and consume higher amounts (13).

Contraindications

There are no documented side effects of consuming prunes or plums to date.

There are some reports of diarrhea due to prune consumption (2). Research showed that consuming a maximum of 100 grams of prunes in a regular daily diet did not produce significant bowel changes in men and postmenopausal women (2).

Article author photo Christelle  Tchakerian
Education: Institute for Integrative Nutrition New York
Last updated: March 11, 2024
Medically reviewed by Arpi Gasparyan

Infographic

Prunes vs Plum infographic
Infographic link

Macronutrient Comparison

Macronutrient breakdown side-by-side comparison
Prunes
4
2% 64% 31% 3%
Protein: 2.18 g
Fats: 0.38 g
Carbs: 63.88 g
Water: 30.92 g
Other: 2.64 g
Plum
1
11% 87%
Protein: 0.7 g
Fats: 0.28 g
Carbs: 11.42 g
Water: 87.23 g
Other: 0.37 g
Contains more ProteinProtein +211.4%
Contains more FatsFats +35.7%
Contains more CarbsCarbs +459.4%
Contains more OtherOther +613.5%
Contains more WaterWater +182.1%

Fat Type Comparison

Fat type breakdown side-by-side comparison
Prunes
1
43% 26% 31%
Saturated Fat: Sat. Fat 0.088 g
Monounsaturated Fat: Mono. Fat 0.053 g
Polyunsaturated fat: Poly. Fat 0.062 g
Plum
2
9% 69% 23%
Saturated Fat: Sat. Fat 0.017 g
Monounsaturated Fat: Mono. Fat 0.134 g
Polyunsaturated fat: Poly. Fat 0.044 g
Contains more Poly. FatPolyunsaturated fat +40.9%
Contains less Sat. FatSaturated Fat -80.7%
Contains more Mono. FatMonounsaturated Fat +152.8%

Carbohydrate type comparison

Carbohydrate type breakdown side-by-side comparison
Prunes
3
12% 59% 29%
Starch: 5.11 g
Sucrose: 0.15 g
Glucose: 25.46 g
Fructose: 12.45 g
Lactose: 0 g
Maltose: 0.06 g
Galactose: 0 g
Plum
3
16% 51% 31%
Starch: 0 g
Sucrose: 1.57 g
Glucose: 5.07 g
Fructose: 3.07 g
Lactose: 0 g
Maltose: 0.08 g
Galactose: 0.14 g
Contains more StarchStarch +∞%
Contains more GlucoseGlucose +402.2%
Contains more FructoseFructose +305.5%
Contains more SucroseSucrose +946.7%
Contains more MaltoseMaltose +33.3%
Contains more GalactoseGalactose +∞%
~equal in Lactose ~0g

Comparison summary table

Pay attention to the rightmost column. It displays the amounts side by side, giving a clearer understanding of the difference.
Prunes Plum
Rich in minerals ok
Lower in Glycemic Index ok
Rich in vitamins ok
Lower in Sugar ok
Lower in Sodium ok
Lower in Saturated Fat ok
Lower in price ok
Lower in Cholesterol Equal

All nutrients comparison - raw data values

Nutrient Prunes Plum Opinion
Calories 240kcal 46kcal Prunes
Protein 2.18g 0.7g Prunes
Fats 0.38g 0.28g Prunes
Vitamin C 0.6mg 9.5mg Plum
Net carbs 56.78g 10.02g Prunes
Carbs 63.88g 11.42g Prunes
Magnesium 41mg 7mg Prunes
Calcium 43mg 6mg Prunes
Potassium 732mg 157mg Prunes
Iron 0.93mg 0.17mg Prunes
Sugar 38.13g 9.92g Plum
Fiber 7.1g 1.4g Prunes
Copper 0.281mg 0.057mg Prunes
Zinc 0.44mg 0.1mg Prunes
Starch 5.11g 0g Prunes
Phosphorus 69mg 16mg Prunes
Sodium 2mg 0mg Plum
Vitamin A 781IU 345IU Prunes
Vitamin A 39µg 17µg Prunes
Vitamin E 0.43mg 0.26mg Prunes
Manganese 0.299mg 0.052mg Prunes
Selenium 0.3µg 0µg Prunes
Vitamin B1 0.051mg 0.028mg Prunes
Vitamin B2 0.186mg 0.026mg Prunes
Vitamin B3 1.882mg 0.417mg Prunes
Vitamin B5 0.422mg 0.135mg Prunes
Vitamin B6 0.205mg 0.029mg Prunes
Vitamin K 59.5µg 6.4µg Prunes
Folate 4µg 5µg Plum
Choline 10.1mg 1.9mg Prunes
Saturated Fat 0.088g 0.017g Plum
Monounsaturated Fat 0.053g 0.134g Plum
Polyunsaturated fat 0.062g 0.044g Prunes
Tryptophan 0.025mg 0.009mg Prunes
Threonine 0.049mg 0.01mg Prunes
Isoleucine 0.041mg 0.014mg Prunes
Leucine 0.066mg 0.015mg Prunes
Lysine 0.05mg 0.016mg Prunes
Methionine 0.016mg 0.008mg Prunes
Phenylalanine 0.052mg 0.014mg Prunes
Valine 0.056mg 0.016mg Prunes
Histidine 0.027mg 0.009mg Prunes
Fructose 12.45g 3.07g Prunes

Which food is preferable for your diet?

ok
ok
is better in case of low diet
Prunes Plum
Low Calories diet ok
Low Fats diet ok
Low Carbs diet ok
Low Glycemic Index diet ok

People also compare

Vitamins & Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score

The summary scores indicate the extent to which this food can fulfill your daily vitamin and mineral requirements if you consume 3 servings, consisting of 100 grams of each (an approximation of 3 serving sizes).
Vitamins Daily Need Coverage Score
29%
Prunes
9%
Plum
Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score
32%
Prunes
6%
Plum

Comparison summary

Which food is richer in minerals?
Prunes
Prunes is relatively richer in minerals
Which food is lower in glycemic index?
Prunes
Prunes is lower in glycemic index (difference - 24)
Which food is richer in vitamins?
Prunes
Prunes is relatively richer in vitamins
Which food is lower in Sugar?
Plum
Plum is lower in Sugar (difference - 28.21g)
Which food contains less Sodium?
Plum
Plum contains less Sodium (difference - 2mg)
Which food is lower in Saturated Fat?
Plum
Plum is lower in Saturated Fat (difference - 0.071g)
Which food is cheaper?
Plum
Plum is cheaper (difference - $1.5)
Which food contains less Cholesterol?
?
The foods are relatively equal in Cholesterol (0 mg)

References

All the values for which the sources are not specified explicitly are taken from FDA’s Food Central. The exact link to the food presented on this page can be found below.

  1. Prunes - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168162/nutrients
  2. Plum - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169949/nutrients

All the Daily Values are presented for males aged 31-50, for 2000-calorie diets.

Data provided by FoodStruct.com should be considered and used as information only. Please consult your physician before beginning any diet.