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Sloe
Prunus spinosa
The sloe, scientifically known as Prunus spinosa, is a small, tart fruit native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa. Often overlooked in favor of its more popular relatives like plums and cherries, the sloe is a hidden gem in the culinary and nutritional world. Its deep blue-purple hue and astringent flavor make it a favorite for creating sloe gin, jams, and preserves. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, sloes offer a range of health benefits, from boosting immunity to aiding digestion. The fruit grows on thorny shrubs, making it a resilient and adaptable plant that thrives in varied environments.
46
Calories
2.5g
Fiber
13%
Vitamin C
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Sloe Nutrition Facts
Calories
46
Per 100g
Carbs
10g
Per 100g
Protein
0.5g
Per 100g
Fiber
2.5g
Per 100g
Sugar
5g
Per 100g
Fat
0.3g
Per 100g
💊Vitamins
Per 100g
Vitamin C
13% DV
12mg
Boosts immunity, aids collagen production, and acts as an antioxidant.
Vitamin A
2% DV
100IU
Supports vision, skin health, and immune function.
⚡Minerals
Per 100g
Potassium
4% DV
190mg
Regulates blood pressure and supports heart function.
Calcium
2% DV
20mg
Strengthens bones and teeth, aids muscle function.
🛡️Antioxidants
AnthocyaninsFlavonoids
🌿Phytonutrients
Phenolic acidsCarotenoids
📊Glycemic Index
35
Per Serving
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
📏
Serving Size
100g
Calories
46kcal
Breakdown
Carbs
10g
Fiber
2.5g
10% DV
Sugar
5g
Protein
0.5g
Fat
0.3g
Vitamin C
💊
12mg
13% DV
Potassium
⚡
190mg
4% DV
Health Benefits of Sloe
Benefit 1: Rich in antioxidants, sloes help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Benefit 2: High in vitamin C, sloes boost immunity, support collagen production, and aid in wound healing.
Benefit 3: The fiber content in sloes promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation.
Benefit 4: Sloes contain potassium, which regulates blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health.
Benefit 5: The anthocyanins in sloes have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the body.
Sloe Origin & Distribution
Native Region
Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa
Global Presence
United KingdomGermanyFranceItalyTurkey
Top Producers
United KingdomGermanyFrance
Historical Background
Sloes have been used for centuries in traditional European medicine and cuisine. They were often used to make jams, preserves, and the popular sloe gin, a liqueur infused with the fruit.
Sloe Peak Season
Best Time to Enjoy
Late summer to early autumn
1 Varieties Available
Sloe Varieties
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Wild Sloe
Europe
Color
Deep blue-purple
Taste Profile
Tart and astringent
Best For
Sloe gin, jams, preserves
Sloe Storage & Selection Guide
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
How to Choose the Perfect Fruit
1
Select sloes that are firm, plump, and free of blemishes.
2
Look for a deep blue-purple color, which indicates ripeness.
Proper Storage Methods
Store sloes in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Shelf Life Guide
Room Temperature
Up to 1 week
Refrigerated
Up to 2 weeks
Average Shelf Life
7 days
Freezing Instructions
Preserve freshness for months
2-3 months
1
Freeze sloes whole in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
2
Use frozen sloes in smoothies, jams, or baking.
Pro Tip
Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Culinary Journey
Discover delicious possibilities
Common Uses
Sloe gin
Jams and preserves
Baked goods like pies and tarts
Sauces and chutneys
Perfect Pairings
CheeseMeat dishesBreadYogurt
Popular Recipes
Sloe Gin
Sloe Jam
Sloe and Apple Crumble
Refreshing Beverages
Sloe Gin
Sloe Syrup for cocktails
Safety Information
Allergy Information:
Sloes are generally safe for consumption, but individuals with tree nut allergies should exercise caution.
Pesticide Concerns:
Sloes are often wild-harvested, reducing pesticide exposure, but commercially grown sloes may contain residues.
Who Should Avoid:
- • Individuals with tree nut allergies
- • People on blood-thinning medications
Possible Side Effects:
- •Potential allergic reactions
- •Interactions with blood-thinning medications
Preparation Safety:
- • Wash sloes thoroughly before use.
- • Remove any stems or debris.
Fun Facts About Sloe
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Sloes are a key ingredient in the traditional British liqueur, sloe gin.
The sloe plant is also known as the blackthorn due to its dark bark and thorny branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sloe?
GeneralSloe is a small, tart fruit from the Prunus spinosa plant, commonly used in jams, preserves, and sloe gin.
How do I choose ripe sloes?
BuyingLook for sloes that are deep blue-purple, firm, and free of blemishes.
How long can I store sloes?
StorageSloes can be stored for up to 1 week at room temperature or up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
What are some popular culinary uses of sloes?
CulinarySloes are commonly used to make sloe gin, jams, preserves, and baked goods like pies and tarts.
Are sloes nutritious?
NutritionYes, sloes are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, offering numerous health benefits.
Can sloes interact with medications?
HealthSloes may interact with blood-thinning medications due to their vitamin K content. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on medication.
Can I freeze sloes?
MiscellaneousYes, sloes can be frozen whole in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
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Environmental Impact
Sustainability insights
Sustainability Overview
Sloes are often wild-harvested, making them a sustainable fruit option.
Carbon Footprint
Low, due to minimal cultivation and processing.
Water Usage
Moderate, as sloes are drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering.
Local vs Imported
Sloes are commonly found in Europe and are often locally sourced in those regions.
Data sources & transparency
We aim to keep this Sloe profile accurate and easy to understand. Nutrition values and % Daily Value figures are based on established reference databases and standard daily value guidance.
- USDA FoodData Central (nutrition reference): fdc.nal.usda.gov
- FDA Daily Values (label standards used for %DV): fda.gov
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Medical disclaimer
This page is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.
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