Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a group of fruits characterised by a hard pit or “stone” at the center, surrounded by fleshy, juicy pulp and a thin outer skin. Botanically, these are classified as indehiscent fruits, meaning they do not naturally split open to release their seeds when ripe. Most stone fruits are enjoyed fresh, though many can also be consumed in dried or preserved forms.
These fruits are typically available during the warmer months, from late April to mid-August, and are known for their rich flavour, vibrant colour, and nutritional benefits. They are generally low in calories and contain important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The stone fruit list includes
- Peaches
- Plums
- Cherries
- Nectarines
- Apricots
- Mangoes
- Lychees
- Coconuts
- Green almonds
- Dates
- Olives
Some fruits like mulberries, blackberries, and raspberries have small drupelets and are sometimes grouped with stone fruits due to similar structural features, though they differ botanically.
Popular Types of Stone Fruits and Their Nutritional Highlight
1. Peaches
Among the types of stone fruits peaches are best enjoyed when brought from the market nearby and consumed immediately. If the stone fruit is a little bit raw that is slightly green on the sides then it needs to be covered and stored at room temperature for a day or two. Among this list, a large peach has around 68 calories and fulfils ⅕th requirement of Vitamin C and 1/10th requirement of Vitamin A and the mineral potassium.
Peach has less amount of fat and is generally rich in essential minerals like copper, manganese Vitamin B3(niacin), Vitamin E and Vitamin K. It also contains constituents like carotenoids such as beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin which is said to be beneficial for the eyes and cardiovascular health. This stone fruit also helps to prevent different metabolic diseases like breast cancer and prostate cancer. The peels of stone fruits like peach are high in antioxidants and should be consumed to reap the maximum benefits of these stone fruits.
2. Plums
Among the list, plums are one of the most delicious, succulent, and juicy and can be consumed when they are fresh as well as when they are dried. These plum stone fruits are rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants, including phenolic compounds like proanthocyanidins and kaempferol. The anti-inflammatory antioxidant in plum stone fruit prevents damage caused by free radicals and also helps to reduce the chances of progressive illnesses like neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disease.
When did the plum stone fruit provide concentrated doses of the same nutrients found in the fresh plum stone fruit and are equally good sources of nutrition, if not better? It has been proven by scientists that eating dried plum stone fruits increases bone mineral density, relieves constipation, and reduces blood pressure. Two plum stone fruits have a nutritional value of 60 calories with generous doses of Vitamin A Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
3. Cherries
Cherries are among the small stone fruits and are consumed by many owing to their sweet flavour. The small stone fruit is nutrient-dense and is high in fibre, Vitamin C, and potassium which have many health benefits. Vitamin C in small stone fruit cherries keeps the immune system in check and helps to maintain healthy skin while potassium helps in muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood pressure regulation. The dietary fibre in this small stone fruit cherry promotes favourable bowel movements and ensures gut health. Vitamin B, manganese, copper, magnesium, and Vitamin K are some of the macronutrients in small stone fruit cherries.
4. Dates
Dates are among the types of stone fruits that can be consumed in fresh as well as dried form. The fresh form of this small stone fruit has fewer calories than dried fruit. Among the type of stone fruits, this small stone fruit is high in essential nutrients like Vitamin A and Vitamin K along with potassium and magnesium. The nutritional value of this type of stone fruit is 100 grams this stone fruit provides 282 calories. This small stone fruit is an excellent snack in between meals and can be topped with warm milk for the best health benefits.
5. Apricots
Apricots are among the types of stone fruits that are similar to peaches but are smaller in size and that is why they are called small stone fruits. These small stone fruits can be consumed fresh as well as dry fruits. These small stone fruits contain 87 calories apiece and are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A and potassium. The chemical constituents in these small stone fruits are catechins, flavonoid phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory benefits and help in digestion, and maintaining healthy skin and bones. The fried form of this small stone fruit has a relatively higher concentration of Vitamin A, Vitamin E and iron that fulfils ¼th of the daily requirements of these micronutrients.
General Benefits of Stone Fruits
Stone fruits are nutritious and versatile. Some of their potential health-supportive properties include:
- Rich in Vitamin C: Aids in collagen production, supports immune health, and promotes skin repair.
- Good source of dietary fibre: Helps support digestion and may contribute to cholesterol management.
- High in antioxidants: Compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids help neutralise oxidative stress.
- Support for eye health: Carotenoids such as beta-carotene found in many stone fruits may support vision.
- Hydration and low-calorie options: Most are high in water and low in calories, making them suitable for a balanced diet.
- Sleep support: Cherries naturally contain melatonin, which plays a role in regulating sleep patterns.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness:
- Store ripe stone fruits in the refrigerator if not consumed the same day.
- Use a paper bag to ripen firm fruits at room temperature.
Cover ripe fruits in a sealed container or ziplock bag to prevent moisture loss.
Conclusion
Stone fruits like peaches, cherries, plums, and apricots offer a flavorful and nutrient-rich addition to your seasonal diet. Packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants, they can be part of a balanced eating pattern when consumed in moderation. Whether fresh or dried, these fruits are easy to enjoy as snacks, in smoothies, or in culinary recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are fruits that have a hard, central pit or “stone” surrounded by soft, edible flesh. Examples include peaches, plums, cherries, apricots, and mangoes.
Stone fruits are classified as indehiscent because their seeds are enclosed within the hard pit and are not released naturally when the fruit matures.
Most stone fruits are in season during the summer months, typically from late April to mid-August, depending on the region and specific fruit.
Yes, most stone fruits are low in calories and provide important nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, fibre, and antioxidants. When consumed as part of a balanced diet, they can offer several health benefits.
In most cases, yes. The skins of peaches, plums, and apricots, for example, are edible and contain additional fibre and antioxidants. However, always wash them thoroughly before eating.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance.
References
- Slavin, J. L., & Lloyd, B. (2012). Health benefits of fruits and vegetables. Advances in Nutrition, 3(4), 506–516. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.112.002154
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) FoodData Central. (n.d.). Nutrient database. https://apps.fas.usda.gov/newgainapi/api/Report/Download
- Boyer, J., & Liu, R. H. (2004). Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutrition Journal, 3(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-3-5
- Wang, H., & Nair, M. G. (2000). Natural antioxidants from fruits. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 48(10), 4547–4552.
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