Quality Evaluation of Fresh, Canned and Dried Plum Varieties in Oregon

Abstract

Prunes are becoming an increasingly popular fruit and new varieties now being evaluated may broaden the versatility of the fruit through new flavors, better size, and better production characteristics. Most of the prunes grown in the Northwest are the popular dual-purpose Italian variety. Some of the earlier ripening strains of Italian such as Richards and Milton are favored in the early ripening districts for fresh fruit shipment. In the major production areas of Western Oregon the Italian variety has been a mainstay of the industry for over fifty years. However, it has certain disadvantages which have plagued growers for years. Italian prunes usually ripen in late September when pickers are scarce, and after fall rains set in. Rains, in addition to making orchards muddy, encourage brown rot. Also, Italian prunes tend to have a rather acid flavor, while many consumers prefer a sweeter taste. Another limitation is that flesh of the fruit often clings to the seed.