Nutrient, fibre, sorbitol and chlorogenic acid content of prunes (Prunus domestica): an updated analysis and comparison of different countries of origin and database values

Abstract

Current prune composition data are outdated and require a comprehensive and comparative re-analysis. This novel study aimed to: (i) analyse and compare prune composition from major countries of origin; and (ii) provide a comprehensive compositional analysis of prunes of USA origin and compare this with UK and USA database data. Prune samples were analysed for major nutrients and bioactive compounds and compared between countries of origin. Total fibre was higher in prunes from the USA (12.0 g/100 g) and Chile (11.5 g/100 g) compared with France (8.4 g/100 g) and Argentina (8.9 g/100 g), while prunes from all countries contained high levels of sorbitol (11.2–15.5 g/100 g). Differences in energy and starch values compared with national databases reflected different approaches to sampling and analysis. In conclusion, prunes contain high levels of fibre and other bioactive compounds. Variations between country of origin and database values highlight the importance of transparency in documenting sampling and analysis methods.

Keywords:

• Dried fruit
• dried plums
• prunes
• gastrointestinal health
• fibre
• polyphenols

Disclosure statement

The funders played no role in study conception, design, analysis, interpretation or writing of the manuscript. KW has served as a consultant for Danone, has received speaker fees from Alpro and the National Dried Fruit Trade Association UK Ltd and has received research funding from Almond Board of California, California Dried Plum Board, Clasado Biosciences, Nestec Ltd, International Nut and Dried Fruit Council, and receives royalties from FoodMaestro. The remaining authors report no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the California Dried Plum Board.