BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS earns a FoodScore of 50/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its beneficial fiber and micronutrient content, despite being an ultra-processed snack.
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS scores 50/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
This product provides 5g of fiber and notable amounts of potassium (15% DV) and Vitamin A (139% DV) per 100g.
The primary concern is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product offers convenience but with processing.
Consider portion control, as a 0.25 cup serving is relatively small for the calorie density.
Scores +9 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
5g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
12mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5g)+6
Micronutrients (Potassium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 50
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS achieves a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, positioning it as a 'Decent' choice. This score reflects a balance between its nutritional benefits and its processing level. The product receives positive points for its fiber content, providing 5g per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily intake. Additionally, it earns bonuses for its micronutrient profile, specifically its high Vitamin A content at 139% DV and potassium at 15% DV per 100g. However, the score is notably impacted by its NOVA class 4 designation, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. This classification incurs a penalty, reflecting the presence of industrial processing and the addition of substances like POTASSIUM SORBATE as a preservative. While BEST YET contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or trans fat, and is low in sodium, the processing level is a key factor. Compared to a whole-food snack like fresh fruit, this product offers similar benefits in terms of fiber and certain vitamins, but with the trade-off of being more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in best yet, pitted prunes dried plums actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS are a good source of fiber, providing 5g per 100g. This dietary fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. The fiber in prunes includes both soluble and insoluble types, contributing to overall gut health. Incorporating fiber-rich foods like these prunes into your diet can support a healthy digestive system by adding bulk to stool and promoting a smooth transit through the intestines.
Contributes to Vision and Immune Function
This product is an excellent source of Vitamin A, offering 139% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, particularly in low light conditions, and plays a vital role in the health of the cornea and retina. Beyond vision, Vitamin A also supports a robust immune system, helping the body defend against infections. Including foods rich in Vitamin A, such as BEST YET prunes, can contribute to these important bodily functions.
Supports Electrolyte Balance
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS provide 725mg of potassium per 100g, which is 15% of the Daily Value. Potassium is a critical electrolyte that plays a key role in several bodily functions, including maintaining fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Adequate potassium intake is also associated with blood pressure regulation. Including potassium-rich foods like prunes can help ensure proper electrolyte balance and support cardiovascular health.
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS earns a FoodScore of 50/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its beneficial fiber and micronutrient content, despite being an ultra-processed snack.
How to eat it
Dried plums, or prunes, are commonly eaten as a quick snack, often straight from the package. They are also used in baking, added to cereals or oatmeal, or incorporated into savory dishes. A typical serving is 0.25 cup, which is a relatively small portion given their calorie density. It's easy to overconsume them due to their sweetness and chewiness.
Pair with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a spoonful of almond butter, to create a more balanced snack and enhance satiety.
Chop and add to oatmeal, yogurt, or whole-grain cereals to boost fiber and natural sweetness without adding sugar, making your breakfast more nutritionally complete.
Use in moderation as a natural sweetener in homemade energy balls or baked goods, reducing the need for added sugars in recipes.
Rehydrate by soaking in warm water for a few minutes to soften them, which can make them easier to chew and digest, and potentially enhance their palatability.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS relates to the presence of POTASSIUM SORBATE, which is used as a preservative. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience mild sensitivities. As with all dried fruits, the concentrated sugar content, even if naturally occurring, means that individuals managing blood sugar levels should consume them in controlled portions. The fiber content, while beneficial, can cause digestive discomfort like bloating or gas in some individuals if consumed in large quantities, especially if they are not accustomed to a high-fiber diet. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this product.
BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS has a FoodScore of 50/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It offers good amounts of fiber, Vitamin A, and potassium. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) means it's not as minimally processed as fresh fruit. When consumed in moderation, it can contribute beneficial nutrients to your diet.
How does BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS compare to Sunsweet Prunes?
Both BEST YET and Sunsweet prunes are dried plums, and their nutritional profiles are generally similar, offering fiber and potassium. The main differences often lie in specific processing methods or the use of preservatives like POTASSIUM SORBATE. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of the specific product you are considering, as formulations can vary slightly between brands like BEST YET and Sunsweet.
What is potassium sorbate and why is it in prunes?
POTASSIUM SORBATE is a common food preservative used to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi, thereby extending the shelf life of products like dried prunes. It helps maintain the quality and safety of the BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS by preventing spoilage. It is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies.
What is a recommended portion size for BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS?
The recommended serving size for BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS is 0.25 cup. This portion provides a good amount of fiber and micronutrients without excessive calories or natural sugars. It's important to stick to this serving size, especially if you are monitoring your calorie or sugar intake, as dried fruits are calorie-dense.
Can I use these prunes in baking or cooking?
Yes, BEST YET PITTED PRUNES DRIED PLUMS are versatile and can be used in various culinary applications. They can add natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods like muffins and cakes, or be chopped and added to savory dishes such as stews or tagines. Their soft texture makes them easy to incorporate into recipes.