Calories in Juice, prune, shelf-stable

What makes juice so powerful?

Unlike most fruit juices, prune juice cannot be made by simply pressing fresh fruit. Because prunes are dried plums, manufacturers must rehydrate them in hot water and then extract the resulting liquid. This unique process yields a beverage with a distinct chemical profile. While whole prunes are famous for their dietary fiber, prune juice contains very little fiber. Its well-known laxative effect actually comes from two other compounds: sorbitol and dihydroxyphenyl isatin. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that acts as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the large intestine to soften stools. Meanwhile, dihydroxyphenyl isatin stimulates peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contractions that move contents through the digestive tract. Additionally, prune juice naturally contains high levels of malic acid, which contributes to its tart flavor profile and helps balance the intense sweetness of the sorbitol and natural sugars. The shelf-stable version undergoes pasteurization and is packaged in a way that preserves these active compounds without refrigeration until opened, making it a reliable pantry staple for digestive support.