Fig Day

June 15. The day we remember the wrinkled, dark, sticky fruit that many undervalue. Fig Day is an unofficial holiday invented by dietitians and dried fruit producers. The goal is to popularize this healthy product. In 2026, when healthy eating became a trend, figs are experiencing a second rebirth. They are added to salads, smoothies, meat dishes, baking. But many still remember only its laxative effect. It's time to dispel myths and show figs from an unexpected side.

What is fig

Figs are dried plums (usually varieties of Hungarian and Renklod). The drying process: the fruits are blanched, cooled, then dried in ovens or in the sun. The result is a dark purple, almost black fruit with a pit or without. Taste - sweet, with a slight tartness. Aroma - smoky (if smoked). Figs are popular in cuisines around the world: in the US, they put them in pies, in Europe - in meat, in Russia - in compotes and fillings for kulechki.

Health benefits

Figs are champions in fiber content (7 g per 100 g). They normalize peristalsis in the intestines, helping with constipation (gentle laxative). They contain sorbitol, which enhances the effect. Antioxidants (flavonoids, carotenoids) fight aging and cancer. Potassium (732 mg) - for the heart and blood pressure. Vitamin K - for bones (prevention of osteoporosis). Vitamin B6 - for the nervous system. Boron strengthens bones and joints. Iron - for hemoglobin. Figs are beneficial for anemia, hypertension, avitaminosis. Of course, there is a lot of sugar (38 g per 100 g), but it is fructose, and it is not as harmful as refined sugar.

Who should not eat figs

Diabetics (in large quantities). People with irritable bowel syndrome (may cause gas formation). With obesity (caloric: 240 kcal per 100 g). With allergy to plums (rarely). Pregnant women - it is possible, but not more than 5-6 pieces a day to avoid diarrhea.

How to choose quality figs

Color: evenly dark, without light spots. Shine - there is, but not oily (treated with glycerin). Flesh - firm, not dry. Taste - sweet, without bitterness. Pit - easily separates. Cheap figs are often treated with sulfur dioxide (E220) for color and preservation - it is better to avoid such. Buy organic figs with the label "without sulfites".

Storing figs

In a cool dark place in a sealed container - up to 6 months. In the refrigerator - up to a year. You can freeze. Before eating, wash and soak in warm water for 10 minutes.

Culinary ideas for Fig Day

Classic: figs with walnuts, wrapped in bacon, baked in the oven. Salad: chicken, figs, cucumber, sour cream. Compote: figs, dried apricots, raisins. Smoothie: banana, figs, kefir. Baking: pie with figs and apples. Meat: beef or pork, stewed with figs and onions. Dessert: figs soaked in yogurt. Try figs as a filling for tarts. Don't be afraid to experiment.

How to celebrate Fig Day

Buy a pack of quality figs. Soak, eat a few pieces. Prepare a dish according to the recipe. Treat colleagues at work. Post a photo of figs on social media and tell about their benefits. Give friends a jar of chocolate-covered figs (recipe is simple: melt chocolate, dip the dried fruit, freeze). Conduct a tasting of different varieties.

Myths about figs

Myth 1: figs cause strong laxative. Reality: gentle, not like castor oil. Myth 2: figs cannot be eaten during weight loss. Reality: you can, in moderate quantities (replacing sugar). Myth 3: figs are just dried plums, there is no difference. Reality: different varieties, and the taste differs. Myth 4: figs are smoked with chemicals. Reality: natural figs are smoked with smoke, but there are also chemical substitutes. Choose a trusted manufacturer.

Fig Day is a great reason to pay attention to this superfood. It is affordable, cheap, healthy. Don't neglect it. Buy a pack of figs today. And don't forget to wash fruits before eating.

Permanent link to this publication: