Healthy diet - seeds in it - stone fruit (drupe)

Healthy diet - seeds in it - stone fruit (drupe)

Drupes, or drupes as they are sometimes called, usually have a single seed in the center of a fleshy (fruit) outer protective covering. Stone fruit is nutritious and typically rich in antioxidant vitamins, especially vitamin C.

The pulp of stone fruit is said to protect the seed as it develops, it also acts as an attractant for birds and animals, which eat the fruit and release the seed in their droppings, ready to germinate.

For the purpose of this article, we will consider stone fruits of the Prunus species – apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach and plum. Plants of the genus Prunus belong to the rose family.

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)
Apricots are rich in carbohydrates and fiber. They are low in fat and a good source of protein. Apricots are an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C and a good source of iron.

Apricots are a seasonal fruit and can be purchased in a can or as dried apricots. Commonly found in health bars and slices, apricots make an excellent fresh snack or can be mixed into puddings and desserts.

Cherry (Prunus avium.)
Nutritionally, cherries are a good source of vitamin C, iron and carbohydrates.

Cherries are delicious from the tree and can be added to many slices and flavors in other dishes. Traditional Christmas pudding wouldn't be the same without cherries.

Nectarine and peach (Prunus persica)
Nectarines are very similar to peaches. There is also a cross called Peacharine.

Nectarines and peaches are high in carbohydrates and a good source of fiber. They are low in fat and protein. They are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.

Plum (Prunus Sp.)
Plums are a fruit with soft flesh and a thin skin. There are several species and varieties, ranging from cherry-sized plums to large plums the size of an apricot. Dried Plus are usually sold as prunes and are known for their high fiber content and the associated maintenance of the digestive system.

Plums are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, phosphorus and potassium.

Interesting facts about stone fruits
Traditional stone fruit is popular in many countries around the world. It is interesting to note that many fruits that are not normally considered stone fruits actually are. The coconut, walnuts, coffee, olives and mango are all recognized as stone fruits. Aggregate fruits such as blackberries and raspberries are a collection of several drupes that form a single fruit.

Most stone fruits can be dried and sold all year round. Dried apricots, prunes, coconut (dried), coffee, walnuts, cherries and others. This is ideal for export fruits as most fruits begin to rot quickly when picked.