Prunes are also referred to as dried plums. They are the fruits of plum trees, which come in many different shapes and sizes. Most commercially used trees grow about five to six meters tall. The annual yield per tree can reach 70 to 140 kilograms of fresh fruits.

The fruits are round with a diameter of up to eight centimetres. Their colour is dependant on the cultivar and varies from bluish to green and yellow. Their firm and juicy flesh surrounds a single hard pit. Dried plums (or prunes) are also sweet and juicy and contain several antioxidants. As with other dried fruits, they are available year round.

Prunes are known for their laxative effect. They increase absorption of iron into the body. Prunes are low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. They are also a good source of dietary fibre and a good source of vitamin K.

Prunes are used in cooking all over the world, in both sweet and savoury dishes. They are a frequent ingredient in North African tagines. Prunes are also known to be made into a compote, stuffing, cake, sugar plums or prune ice. Prunes are also popularly eaten as a snack.