Buying Dried Plums in 2026: A Practical Guide

Choosing the right dried plums can be trickier than it seems. The selection ranges from sweet California prunes to the more sour and complex flavours of Chinese plums. Some packages contain pure fruit, while others feature a coating of sugar or spices. To ensure you don't buy a product that fails to meet your expectations, it's helpful to know what to look for. This guide provides practical criteria to help you make an informed choice.

What to Look for When Choosing Dried Plums

When comparing dried plums, several objective factors can guide your decision. By paying attention to the following specifications, you can find a product that suits your taste and preferences.

1. Flavour Profile and Ingredients

The flavour is largely determined by the type of plum and any additives.

• Sweet vs. Sour: California prunes (usually of the Prunus domestica variety) are known for their deep, sweet flavour and soft texture. In contrast, Chinese plums or green plums (Prunus salicina) often have a more pronounced, slightly sour, and sometimes salty taste.
• Additives: Always check the ingredients list. If you're looking for a pure plum snack, choose a product with 100% plums. Varieties with added sugars, salt, honey, or spices offer a different flavour profile. Products with sweeteners are an alternative to sugar but have a different taste intensity. The Quantitative Ingredient Declaration (QUID), mandatory in the EU, indicates the percentage of the main ingredient (the plum) in the product.

2. Origin and Texture

The origin of the plum affects its flavour and texture. California prunes are typically soft and fleshy. Asian varieties, such as the green plum, can have a firmer bite. The texture is also influenced by the drying process and any coatings.

3. Packaging and Convenience

For a healthy snack on the go, individually wrapped plums are a practical option. This helps with portion control and keeps the plums fresh. Larger, resealable bags are convenient for home use and ensure the plums retain their softness after opening.

Our Selection of Dried Plums for 2026

Based on the criteria above, we have curated a selection of different types of dried plums. These recommendations detail the product specifications to help you with your choice.

1. Liu Liu Prune Snow Plums (with sweeteners) 60g

• Why this product: This snack combines a dried green plum with a fine sugar coating, resulting in a complex sweet-and-sour flavour profile. The individual packaging makes it a convenient on-the-go snack.
• Benefits:
  • Flavour: Sweet-and-sour balance.
  • Texture: Soft dried plum with a light coating.
  • Ingredients: Contains 90% green plum, supplemented with sugar, glucose, honey, and sweeteners (E954, E952, E955).
  • Convenience: Individually wrapped for freshness and easy portioning.
• Who is this for: For fans of Asian snacks who appreciate a layered flavour experience and are looking for an easy, portioned plum snack.

2. LYFEN California Prunes 108g

• Why this product: This product offers the pure taste of sun-ripened California prunes without any additives. It is a straightforward and natural choice for those looking for sugar-free prunes.
• Benefits:
  • Ingredients: 100% California prunes. No added sugars or preservatives.
  • Nutrition: A source of dietary fibre (per 100g: 63g carbohydrates, of which 38g are sugars naturally occurring in the fruit).
  • Flavour: Naturally sweet and fruity.
  • Packaging: Convenient resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
• Who is this for: For consumers seeking a pure, unprocessed, and fibre-rich snack. Ideal for those who prefer the classic, rich flavour of California prunes.

3. Liu Liu Prune Green Plum Green Tea Flavor (with sweeteners) 160g

• Why this product: This variety offers a unique flavour combination by infusing green plums with green tea extract. The result is a refreshing and slightly sour snack that is a departure from the traditional dried plum.
• Benefits:
  • Flavour: Refreshing and naturally sour with a subtle tea taste.
  • Ingredients: Consists of 91.8% green plum, supplemented with sugar, tea extract, and a sweetener (E955).
  • Sugar Content: Relatively low sugar content (2.5g per 100g) due to the use of sweeteners.
  • Convenience: Ready to eat as a surprising snack.
• Who is this for: For the adventurous eater who enjoys discovering new flavours within the online Asian snacks category. A great choice if you are looking for a less sweet, refreshing plum snack.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For? Explore More Options

The world of dried plums is diverse, especially within the Asian assortment. In addition to the products highlighted above, many other varieties exist with different flavours, textures, and ingredients. If you are interested in more unique tastes, you can browse our full selection.

Explore more options in our category: Chinese dried plums.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dried Plums

What is the difference between Chinese green plums and California prunes?

The main difference lies in the variety and flavour. California prunes are typically from the sweet Prunus domestica variety, resulting in a soft, fleshy, and sweet snack. Chinese green plums (Prunus salicina) are often more sour and are combined with salt, sugar, or other flavourings in many Asian snacks for a more complex profile.

Are dried plums a healthy snack?

Dried plums are a natural source of dietary fibre. Whether a specific plum snack can be considered a healthy snack depends on its additives. Varieties without added sugars, like the LYFEN California Prunes, contain only the naturally occurring sugars from the fruit. Products with sugar coatings or syrup have a higher sugar and calorie content. It is always advisable to check the nutritional information and ingredients list on the packaging.

What is the best way to store dried plums?

To maintain their quality, store dried plums in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. After opening the package, it is best to seal it tightly, for example, using the resealable strip or by transferring the contents to an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out and ensures they remain soft and flavourful.

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer