Fueling Canadians with functional foods for health and vitality

For many September marks the return to routine, which means a pivot back to meal planning and preparation. A recent study by Accenture (2023) revealed that consumers consider health and groceries to be an essential spend category, highlighting that products with a focus on health and wellness is at the forefront of their purchasing decisions. 

Foods that offer functional health benefits, including cognitive advantages, can assist in increasing focus in children and adults alike. Research on California Prunes* has found a link between a good balance of bacteria cultures in our gut and mental health, identifying the clear gut-brain connection. “Our gut microbiome exerts a substantial influence on our mental health and cognition, and nutrition plays a key role in maintaining an optimal balance of these beneficial bacteria. Look no further than fibre-packed prunes which have been shown to help these ‘good bacteria’ thrive,” says registered dietitian, Dr. Nanci Guest.

In addition to cognitive benefits, prunes are a convenient superfood that can be used to simplify family meals and snacks. A single serving of 4 to 5 California Prunes contains under 100 calories, 3g fibre, 290mg potassium, 35mcg vitamin K and no added sugar, cholesterol, sodium, or fat, making it an essential ingredient. 

California Prunes are a versatile ingredient that add rich flavour, texture, and natural sweetness to a variety of sweet and savoury foods. Prunes are the ideal ingredient for health-conscious shoppers because of their many benefits including: 

• Health: An excellent source of important nutrients which form a web of vital functions that support bone, gut and heart health and the immune system.
• Versatility: Whole, diced, or pureed, prunes are complementary to proteins and grains, on salads and cereals, and in sauces and baked goods.
• Quality: They are unlike any other prunes in the world due to their world-famous growing conditions, the highest quality agricultural standards of any other nation, generations of expert craftsmanship, and a perfected drying system.