Description

Plums are a round fruit with a thin, smooth skin and small size. They can be oval to heart-shaped. Their skin can be red, purple, green,  blue-black, yellow or amber, while their flesh comes in hues such as green, yellow, and pink and orange. They have a soft and juicy flesh, and a single large, hard seed. They are classified into six general varieties—Japanese, American, Damson, Ornamental, Wild and European/Garden—whose size, shape and colors vary. They are available throughout the year. They originated in Asia.

Health benefits

• Plum is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps in regulating the digestive system.⁽¹⁾
• It contains vitamin B6, which helps in the transmission of nerve signals and aids in the smooth functioning of the nervous system.⁽¹⁾
• It contains high vitamin C content which is beneficial in strengthening the immune system.⁽¹⁾
• It also helps in reducing anxiety.⁽¹⁾
• It contains boron which helps to improve bone health.⁽²⁾

Selection Guide

Choose plums with a slight whitish bloom, which indicates no over-handling. Select the ones that are firm. Avoid the soft plums with bruises. Avoid the ones that are excessively hard as they will be immature and will probably not develop a good taste and texture profile.