Prune Day
Food DaysWhat Is Prune Day?
The 26th of every month is "Prune Day" in Japan. It was established by the Japan branch of Sunsweet, the world's largest producer and distributor of prunes. The date comes from a numerical pun: 2 is read "pu" and 6 is read "rūn," together sounding like "prune."
Reading 2 and 6 as "Prune"
Bending numbers into a product name is a common technique among Japanese commemorative days, and Prune Day is a clear example, turning 26 into "pu-rūn."
- Established by: Sunsweet International, Japan Branch
- Origin of the date: 2 read as "pu" and 6 as "rūn"
- Why monthly: a wish for people to enjoy prunes all year round
- Purpose: to convey the appeal of prunes and support sales
Prunes Are Dried Plums
Prunes are dried European plums. They are eaten as they are and also processed into pastes and juices. The year-end season tends to throw eating habits off balance, so a jar of dried fruit on your desk is an easy thing to reach for.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Pick up a pack of dried prunes at a supermarket or convenience store
- Try them together with yogurt or cheese
- Look for a Western dessert or braised dish that uses prunes
- Stock some long-keeping dried fruit for New Year visitors
A Fruit Anniversary Born from Wordplay
Choosing the 26th of every month suits a dried food that can be eaten in any season. On the last 26th of the year, a single prune makes an easy snack in the middle of a busy December.