Honey-sweetened plums, originating from China, are often referred to as “honey-coated plums” or “green honey plums.” The most renowned cultivation area for this fruit is Zhenfeng County in Guizhou Province, where the climate and soil conditions are deemed ideal for its growth. This is why the harvested products consistently exhibit uniform quality and a distinctive flavor that is hard to replicate. In China, honey-sweetened plums are considered a prized delicacy, once hailed as the “finest plum variety” in the country.
The first impression honey-sweetened plums make on consumers is their appearance. The fruits are medium-sized, weighing around 35.5g, with the largest reaching up to 65.9g. The outer skin is typically green, and when ripe, natural red spots or streaks may appear. The inner flesh is pale yellow, juicy, and has a crisp, crunchy texture. Upon tasting, a gentle aroma is released, accompanied by a rich sweetness and a subtle tangy aftertaste. This sets honey-sweetened plums apart from ordinary plum varieties, which tend to be sharply tart.
According to test results, honey-sweetened plums have a high sugar content, reaching 15.9%, making them the sweetest plum variety among those cultivated in China. This sweetness is even measured at 20 Brix, equivalent to the sensation of eating natural honey without causing throat irritation. Notably, the flesh near the seed retains its sweetness, allowing eaters to distinctly experience the “sweetness to the core.” The seeds of honey-sweetened plums are small and easily separate from the flesh, making them convenient to enjoy.
Many people, after first trying honey-sweetened plums in major Chinese cities like Beijing or Shanghai, have expressed surprise at their flavor. With just one bite, the fruit’s juice bursts forth, filling the mouth with a mild sweetness. Unlike traditional plums, which often have a pronounced tartness, honey-sweetened plums offer a sensation akin to eating fruit candy blended with natural honey. Their crispness, juiciness, and sweetness have quickly made this fruit popular not only in China but also in other Asian markets, including Vietnam.
Beyond their taste, honey-sweetened plums are also highly valued for their nutritional benefits. According to data, 100g of honey-sweetened plums contains approximately 8.95mg of vitamin C. Additionally, this fruit is rich in fiber, beta-carotene, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium and selenium. The vitamins A and C in the plums help improve vision, enhance skin health, and boost immunity. The abundant fiber aids digestion, prevents constipation, and reduces bloating. With their low calorie count and high water content, honey-sweetened plums are suitable for those on a diet or looking to maintain their figure. The natural antioxidants and minerals also benefit cardiovascular health, blood circulation, and slow down the aging process.
Honey-sweetened plums are cultivated using modern agricultural methods, adhering to safety standards and minimizing the use of chemicals. Farmers harvest the fruits at their peak ripeness to ensure the natural honey-like sweetness is preserved. After harvesting, the plums are carefully packaged and stored to maintain their freshness throughout transportation, even when exported to demanding markets.
In Vietnam, honey-sweetened plums quickly became a sensation upon entering the market. On culinary forums and shopping groups, many expressed curiosity about this fruit with a name that “sounds sweet.” Images of the glossy green plums, their crisp yellow flesh, and the advertised “20 Brix” sweetness further piqued consumer interest. However, the price of this fruit is not cheap, ranging from 140,000 to 500,000 VND/kg depending on the size. This has left many both eager to try and hesitant to buy.
The high price of honey-sweetened plums reflects their true value. They are not just a fruit to cool down during hot summer days but also a luxurious gift, thanks to their attractive appearance, unique flavor, and abundant health benefits. Especially during holidays or special occasions, honey-sweetened plums are a popular choice for gifting to family, friends, or business partners.
Honey-sweetened plums can be enjoyed in various ways. Consumers often eat them fresh after washing to fully experience their cool, sweet flavor. They can also be used in fruit salads, paired with yogurt or honey for added taste. Some even juice honey-sweetened plums to create a refreshing drink rich in vitamins and minerals.
To maintain their freshness, honey-sweetened plums should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures between 4–8 °C. They are best consumed within 5–7 days of purchase. Consumers should avoid exposing the plums to direct sunlight or high humidity to prevent spoilage.
Honey-sweetened plums, originating from Guizhou, China, have proven their strong appeal through their unique flavor and high nutritional value. They are not just a refreshing fruit but also a symbol of luxury when given as a gift. The introduction of honey-sweetened plums to the Vietnamese market has enriched the selection of imported fruits and reflects a new consumer trend—one where buyers seek not only deliciousness but also value health and experience.
With their relatively high price, honey-sweetened plums are not an everyday fruit for everyone. However, for those who enjoy new taste experiences, care about health, and seek a sophisticated gift, honey-sweetened plums are undoubtedly worth trying at least once.
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