Apricots are more than just a sweet snack; they are a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits. Their place in the Mediterranean Diet only enhances their appeal, fitting perfectly into a lifestyle focused on whole foods and balanced nutrition.
However, it’s crucial to consume them in moderation, particularly if you are eating dried apricots or trying apricot pits. Always pay attention to your body’s response and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health concerns.
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How did I start eating Apricots?
I had never paid much attention to apricots. As a 45-year-old mom with two boys, I always aimed for a balanced diet, but apricots just weren’t part of my routine. That was until I came across some fascinating information about their potential anticancer properties.
Apparently, apricots—the flesh, skin, and even the pits—might hold powerful health benefits. The fruit itself fits perfectly within the Mediterranean Diet plan I’m trying to follow. Fresh, whole fruits are staples of the diet, and apricots, with their rich antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, seem like a natural fit.
But what really intrigued me was the mention of apricot pits. Some people claimed they contained compounds—especially amygdalin, or vitamin B17—that could have anticancer effects. It sounded almost too good to be true, so I dug deeper.[1,2]
I quickly learned about the dangers of eating apricot pits raw due to their cyanide content. I knew I had to be careful if I was going to try them. It wasn’t something to take lightly. But I kept coming across references to people consuming tiny amounts safely, with the right preparation.
So, here’s what I do:
When I eat apricots, I save the pits and let them dry completely. Once dried, I carefully crack them open with a nutcracker to extract the kernel inside. The kernels look like small, bitter almonds. I roast them thoroughly on low heat—usually around 250°F (120°C)—for about 20 minutes. Roasting is crucial because it helps reduce the amygdalin content, making them safer to consume.
Once roasted and cooled, I crush the kernels into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. From everything I’ve read, moderation is key. So, I only consume a pinch of the powder—less than half a kernel’s worth—at a time. And I don’t do this daily. Maybe once or twice a week at most.
I usually mix the powder into a spoonful of honey or yogurt to help mask the bitterness. Afterward, I drink a full glass of water. Hydration feels important, and I think it helps wash everything down properly.
I’m aware that this practice is controversial. But I can’t help being fascinated by how apricots fit so beautifully into the Mediterranean Diet—especially the fresh, vibrant fruit itself. I love how apricots are packed with antioxidants, supporting cellular health and potentially lowering cancer risk.
And the pits? Well, they’re just a tiny, carefully managed part of my journey.
History
Apricots were cultivated in China as early as 2000 BCE. From there, they spread through Persia (modern-day Iran) and eventually reached the Mediterranean region. The fruit was introduced to the Greeks and Romans through Armenia, which is why its botanical name, Prunus armeniaca, suggests an Armenian origin.
By the time of the Roman Empire, apricots were well-established in the Mediterranean basin. Romans called them praecocum or armeniacum, with praecocum referring to their tendency to ripen early compared to other fruits.
Use in Ancient Medicine
Apricots were valued not only as food but also for their medicinal properties.
Hippocrates (5th century BCE) and Dioscorides (1st century CE)—two of the most influential physicians of the ancient world—do not specifically mention apricots in their surviving works. However, they often recommended fruits and nuts for their medicinal qualities. It’s possible apricots were known to them but simply not documented in surviving texts.
Pliny the Elder (23–79 CE), the Roman author of Naturalis Historia, described various fruits cultivated throughout the empire but didn’t emphasize apricots. However, it is clear that apricots were known and enjoyed by Romans.
Galen (2nd century CE), a Greek physician serving in Rome, also documented various fruits used for health, but apricots do not appear prominently in his surviving works.
The absence of explicit references to apricots by these prominent figures doesn’t mean they were not consumed. They were likely considered a luxury fruit due to their relatively limited cultivation compared to other fruits like figs, grapes, or olives.
Did they eat Apricot Pits?
The consumption of apricot pits is much less documented. Ancient peoples were familiar with bitter almonds and other kernels, which they sometimes used in medicines despite knowing their potential toxicity.
Amygdalin, the compound found in apricot pits, is also present in bitter almonds, which were certainly known in the ancient Mediterranean world.
Egyptians used various seeds and nuts in their medicinal recipes, but there is little direct evidence that apricot pits were part of their practices.
However, given the Mediterranean tradition of using all parts of plants for medicinal purposes, it’s not unreasonable to assume that apricot pits might have been experimented with by healers or alchemists.
Modern Perspective
Apricots today are firmly associated with the Mediterranean Diet, especially in countries like Greece, Turkey, and Italy. They are appreciated for their antioxidants, vitamins, and fibers—qualities that would have appealed to ancient physicians had they been thoroughly documented.
The fruit likely originated in China and Central Asia but spread westward along trade routes.
Myths and Folklore about Apricots
Apricots have danced between sweetness and danger throughout history, weaving themselves into folklore, superstition, and mysterious tales across cultures. While their golden flesh has long been cherished, their kernels have often been seen as symbols of poison, madness, or forbidden power.
Sailor’s Curse
British sailors once feared apricots so much that they refused to mention them by name when at sea. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the mere presence of apricots aboard a vessel was believed to bring catastrophic bad luck.
This superstition likely grew from the resemblance between dried apricot pits and gunpowder grains, sparking fears of contamination or sabotage. To many sailors, the fruit was not a symbol of sweetness, but of potential disaster.
Sacred role
In Armenia, where apricots have been cultivated for thousands of years, the fruit took on a more sacred role. It was seen as a gift of fertility and prosperity, offered during rituals to bless the harvest.
Apricot wood was carved into religious artifacts, believed to hold spiritual power. Yet, even here, darker beliefs lurked. It was said that placing apricots by windows or doorways could ward off evil spirits—a charm against the unknown.
Turkish Beliefs
Turkish folklore also plays with dualities. The saying “apricots in Damascus” is a poetic reference to something perfect or ideal, inspired by the sweet, flawless apricots grown in Damascus, Syria.
Yet, there was also a haunting belief that consuming dried apricot kernels could induce madness. This superstition, rooted in truth, stemmed from the toxic amygdalin present in the kernels—capable of releasing cyanide if ingested in excess. Fear and reverence went hand in hand.
Stories of poisoning have long haunted the apricot’s legacy. Throughout history, royals and nobles were said to have been felled not by daggers or swords, but by kernels ground into a fine, deadly powder.
The bitterness of the pit itself became a test of courage in some cultures, even featuring in initiation rituals where consuming the bitter seed was seen as an act of defiance against death.
Chinese Myths
In China, however, apricots were symbols of medicine and knowledge. The famous physician Dong Feng of the Han Dynasty treated patients for free, asking only that they plant apricot trees in gratitude. His orchard supposedly grew to over 100,000 trees, becoming a living testament to his skill and generosity.
But even here, legends warned of excess. It was said that consuming too many apricot kernels could plunge someone into a deep, death-like sleep, leaving them trapped between life and death.
Persian Poetry
In Persian poetry, apricots were symbols of beauty, sweetness, and fleeting pleasure. Their golden glow evoked both luxury and fragility.
Mediterranean Tales
Yet, in certain Mediterranean tales, this delicate fruit took on a more ominous role. Farmers believed that leaving a few apricots on the tree during harvest would satisfy the spirits of the land, preventing curses or misfortune from befalling the crops. A golden offering to unseen powers.
Urban Legends
The ambiguity of apricots is perhaps most vividly illustrated in an old urban legend. According to the tale, a tyrant once invited his enemies to a lavish banquet. But instead of poisoning the wine, as was customary, he ground apricot kernels into powder and sprinkled it over their desserts. The guests, charmed by the sweetness, indulged with delight—only to collapse into convulsions before leaving the palace grounds.
What was meant to be a feast of reconciliation became an unforgettable warning about greed and deception.
Even today, in some Mediterranean regions, older generations whisper of the dangers associated with apricot pits. Tales of poisoning, madness, and curses are not easily forgotten. The dual nature of the fruit—nourishing yet potentially lethal—has cemented its place in folklore across the ages.
Health Benefits
Apricots are a great source of vitamins A, C, E, and K.
- Vitamin A, present in apricots as beta-carotene, is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin maintenance. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin C supports immune health, collagen synthesis, and skin elasticity, while also enhancing iron absorption.
- Vitamin E, another potent antioxidant, protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthier skin and reducing inflammation. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Minerals found in apricots include potassium, copper, and magnesium.
- Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, balance fluids, and support muscle and nerve function.
- Copper contributes to energy production, iron absorption, and the formation of collagen, while
- magnesium supports muscle function, bone health, and cardiovascular health.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 48 kcal | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 11.1 g | 4% |
| Protein | 1.4 g | 3% |
| Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% |
| Sugars | 9.2 g | – |
| Vitamin A | 96 μg | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg | 11% |
| Vitamin E | 0.89 mg | 6% |
| Vitamin K | 3.3 μg | 3% |
| Potassium | 259 mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 13 mg | 1% |
| Magnesium | 10 mg | 2% |
| Phosphorus | 23 mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% |
| Copper | 0.08 mg | 9% |
| Manganese | 0.08 mg | 4% |
| Folate (B9) | 9 μg | 2% |
High Antioxidant Content
Apricots are loaded with antioxidants such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.
Flavonoids like catechins and quercetin have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, promoting brain health and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
Polyphenols help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, enhancing cardiovascular health.
The presence of beta-carotene and vitamin C further contributes to their antioxidant profile, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This protective effect is essential for cellular health and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
The mean antioxidant content of apricots is 0.52 mmol per 100g, while they have a moderate polyphenol concentration of about 180 mg per 100g.[4]
Supports Digestive Health
Apricots are an excellent source of dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber. Soluble fiber aids in digestion by attracting water and forming a gel-like substance, which slows down digestion and promotes nutrient absorption. It also supports a healthy gut microbiome by acting as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria.
Moreover, dietary fiber helps regulate bowel movements, reducing the risk of constipation and promoting overall digestive health.
Fiber is also beneficial for weight management because it promotes feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake. When included as part of a balanced Mediterranean diet, apricots can help maintain a healthy weight while providing essential nutrients.
Promotes Heart Health
The combination of potassium, antioxidants, and fiber in apricots makes them a heart-friendly fruit. Potassium helps relax blood vessel walls, lowering blood pressure and preventing hypertension. Antioxidants like flavonoids help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in the development of heart disease.
Additionally, the soluble fiber in apricots helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. By promoting better cholesterol levels and blood pressure control, apricots contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
Good for Skin Health
Apricots are known for their skin-boosting properties, largely due to their high levels of vitamins A, C, and E. Vitamin A promotes skin regeneration and repair, helping to keep skin smooth and healthy. Vitamin C enhances collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage and helps maintain skin moisture.
Furthermore, the natural oils found in apricots are often used in cosmetic products for their moisturizing and nourishing effects. Consuming apricots regularly may contribute to healthier, more radiant skin from the inside out.[5,6,7]
Bone Health Support
The combination of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin K found in apricots helps promote bone health.
Magnesium plays a vital role in bone formation and maintenance, while potassium helps prevent calcium loss through urine, supporting bone density. Vitamin K is essential for bone mineralization and maintaining bone strength, reducing the risk of fractures.
Weight Loss Aid
Apricots are naturally low in calories but rich in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for weight management.
Their high water content (about 86% of the fruit) helps with hydration, while their fiber content promotes satiety. The fiber not only helps with digestion but also slows the release of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in insulin levels and promoting steady energy levels.
Additionally, the antioxidants in apricots may support metabolic health, aiding in weight control. Including apricots as part of a Mediterranean diet—known for its emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins—aligns well with a weight-loss or weight-maintenance plan.
Actually, apricots are one of the fruits with the lowest sugar content with only 9.2 grams per 100g. Because apricots are low in sugar, and high in water and fiber, they have a pretty low glycemic load of 6. This means apricots won’t significantly spike your blood sugar levels.[8]
A good rule of thumb for weight loss is to focus on foods with a low glycemic index. These foods can help burn belly fat and maintain a healthy weight.[9]
An apricot has only 17 calories.
Potential Anticancer Properties
Some research suggests that the amygdalin (also called vitamin B17) found in apricot kernels may have anticancer properties. Amygdalin is believed to target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected, although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in apricots can help prevent DNA damage, which is a known factor in cancer development.
However, it’s essential to consume apricot kernels safely, if at all, due to the potential risk of cyanide poisoning. Roasting or cooking apricot kernels is thought to reduce toxicity, but moderation is key.
Eye Health Benefits
Apricots are rich in carotenoids like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A in the body, which is essential for maintaining good vision and preventing night blindness.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are particularly important for protecting the retina from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Obese people tend to have lower serum concentrations of carotenoids.[10]
Should you buy Organic Apricots?
Opting for organic apricots can be a healthier choice, especially for you and your kids. Conventionally grown apricots are often treated with pesticides and other chemicals to protect them from pests and prolong their shelf life.
For children, who are more susceptible to the effects of pesticides due to their developing bodies, organic apricots can be a safer and more nutritious option.
While apricots aren’t always listed among the “Dirty Dozen”—a list published annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) featuring fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues—they can still be exposed to harmful chemicals.[11]
Because apricots have thin skin that you typically eat, any pesticides used can be easily absorbed and ingested.
Research has shown that organic fruits, including apricots, can have higher concentrations of beneficial antioxidants such as vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Additionally, organic produce often has higher nutrient density because it’s grown in healthier soil.
Finding Organic Apricots at the Best Prices
Organic apricots can sometimes be pricier than conventionally grown ones. To find the best prices:
- Farmers’ Markets: Local farmers often sell organic produce at reasonable prices, especially during peak apricot season (late spring to early summer).
- Bulk Purchases: Buying organic apricots in bulk during peak season and preserving them (e.g., drying or freezing) can save money.
- Local Co-ops & Health Food Stores: These often have membership discounts or sales on organic fruits.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Thrive Market or Azure Standard sometimes offer organic dried apricots at lower prices compared to grocery stores.
- Organic Subscription Boxes: Some companies deliver organic produce directly to your door at competitive prices.
Tips to Buy the Best Apricots
- Color & Texture: Look for apricots with a rich orange or golden color. Avoid pale or greenish fruits as they are likely underripe. The skin should be slightly soft but not mushy.
- Smell: Ripe apricots have a sweet, fruity aroma. If there’s little to no scent, they might be underripe.
- Avoid Bruises: While organic fruits may have minor imperfections, avoid those with significant bruising or signs of mold.
- Storage: Keep fresh apricots at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Seasonal Buying: To enjoy the freshest and most nutrient-dense apricots, buy them during their natural season.
Best Time to eat Apricots
Morning
For weight loss, it’s best to eat apricots in the morning or as a mid-morning snack. Their high fiber content (both soluble and insoluble) aids digestion, promotes satiety, and curbs unnecessary cravings.
Soluble fiber, particularly pectin, helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes and crashes that often lead to overeating.
Additionally, apricots are low in calories but rich in water content, making them a hydrating and satisfying option to include in a balanced breakfast or a pre-lunch snack.
Eating them on an empty stomach can also aid in better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Eating fresh apricots on an empty stomach in the morning can enhance absorption of their vitamins and minerals, especially if your goal is weight loss or improved digestion.
After Exercise
For muscle recovery, apricots can be particularly beneficial post-workout. After exercise, your body craves nutrients to repair tissues and restore energy.
Apricots provide a good source of potassium (about 259 mg per 100 grams), an essential electrolyte that helps prevent muscle cramps and supports muscle function.
They also contain antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress induced by strenuous exercise.
Pairing them with a source of protein, like yogurt or nuts, can enhance muscle recovery and replenish glycogen stores effectively.
At Dinner
Eating apricots at dinner can be beneficial for sleep, but their effects are subtle and largely related to their nutrient content rather than having direct sleep-inducing properties.
Apricots contain small amounts of magnesium and potassium, which are known to support relaxation and muscle function. Magnesium, in particular, can help calm the nervous system, potentially promoting a more restful sleep.
Potassium also aids in muscle relaxation and can prevent nighttime muscle cramps, especially if you’re physically active during the day.
Additionally, apricots provide vitamin B6, which plays a role in the production of melatonin — the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Although the amount in apricots is not extremely high, combining them with other foods rich in vitamin B6 (such as bananas or chickpeas) during dinner can be more effective.
However, if you’re specifically aiming to improve sleep quality, apricots alone may not be a miracle solution. Instead, consider incorporating them as part of a balanced evening meal.
Their natural sugars and high fiber content make them a gentle, healthy dessert option that won’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which could otherwise interfere with sleep.
One aspect to be cautious about is their fiber content. Eating too many apricots late at night might cause digestive discomfort, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. To avoid this, you can consume one or two fresh apricots as part of your dinner or as a light snack an hour or two before bedtime.
The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fresh fruits like apricots, promotes overall health, including better sleep patterns. Pairing apricots with other sleep-friendly foods like almonds (rich in magnesium) or yogurt (containing tryptophan) can enhance their potential benefits.
How Many
When it comes to weight loss, apricots can be a fantastic addition to your daily diet due to their low-calorie content and high nutrient density. Fresh apricots are about 48 calories per 100 grams, making them a guilt-free, satisfying snack.
For weight loss, 2 to 4 fresh apricots per day is a reasonable and safe amount. This provides about 35–70 calories, depending on their size, and offers a good balance of nutrients and fiber.
If you’re also consuming other fruits throughout the day, consider adjusting your intake to avoid overloading on natural sugars.
There is no strict maximum amount for fresh apricots, but consuming too many (such as over 10 daily) might lead to digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea due to their high fiber content. Moderation is key.
Can you eat Dried Apricots while Dieting?
Yes, you can eat dried apricots on a diet, but with caution. Dried apricots are more calorie-dense because they have much less water content than fresh apricots. Just a small handful (about 5 dried apricot halves) contains approximately 80 calories, which is far more calorie-dense than the fresh fruit equivalent.
Because dried apricots are dehydrated, their nutrient concentration increases. They are particularly rich in potassium, iron, boron, and antioxidants.
Moreover, they are easy to carry and store, making them a convenient, healthy snack option.
However, overeating dried apricots can quickly exceed your daily calorie goal for weight loss.
Drying fruit concentrates natural sugars. Although natural, they can still contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively. Some dried apricots also have added sugars, which should be avoided if you’re trying to lose weight.
Additionally, many commercially dried apricots are treated with sulfur dioxide to preserve their bright orange color. This preservative can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those with asthma.
Overeating dried apricots can cause bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially if your body isn’t used to high-fiber foods.
If you choose to include dried apricots in your weight loss plan, limit your intake to about 3–4 pieces per day. To avoid unnecessary sugar, opt for unsweetened, organic dried apricots. They’re also a great option for muscle recovery after workouts due to their potassium content.
Dangers
Digestive Issues
Apricots are rich in dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation. However, consuming too many apricots at once can overwhelm your digestive system, especially if you are not used to a high-fiber diet. This can result in bloating, gas, stomach cramps, or diarrhea.
To prevent digestive discomfort, it’s best to gradually increase your intake and spread your apricot consumption throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water alongside apricots also helps the fiber move smoothly through your digestive tract.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some people can be allergic to apricots. Allergic reactions may manifest as:
- Itching or swelling of the mouth, lips, or throat.
- Skin rashes or hives.
- Difficulty breathing (in severe cases).
Apricot allergies may be more common among those with pollen allergies or sensitivity to related fruits like peaches, cherries, or plums.
If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue consumption and consult a healthcare provider.
Cyanide Toxicity from Apricot Pits
Apricot pits contain amygdalin, a natural compound that can release cyanide when metabolized by the body. Consuming large amounts of raw apricot pits can be dangerous and potentially lethal.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, and even coma.
Pregnant women, children, and individuals with underlying health conditions should completely avoid apricot pits.
Risk of High Sugar Intake
Dried apricots are much more calorie-dense and sugar-concentrated than fresh apricots. Eating too many can lead to:
- Blood sugar spikes, particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Weight gain if consumed excessively without accounting for the higher calorie content.
- Tooth decay, as sticky dried fruit can cling to teeth and promote bacterial growth.
Choose unsweetened, organic dried apricots and consume them in moderation.
Sulfur Dioxide Sensitivity
Commercially dried apricots are often treated with sulfur dioxide to preserve their bright orange color and prevent spoilage.
Some individuals, especially those with asthma or sulfite sensitivity, may experience respiratory issues, skin rashes, or stomach discomfort.
Opting for organic, unsulfured dried apricots is a safer choice if you are sensitive to these preservatives.
Potential Drug Interactions
Apricots are high in potassium. While beneficial for most people, excessive intake may be problematic for those with kidney issues or those taking potassium-sparing medications. Symptoms of excess potassium intake include irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and nausea.
Always consult your doctor if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication that affects potassium levels.
Environmental Concerns
Apricot cultivation, like many types of fruit farming, presents certain environmental concerns, though it’s generally considered relatively low-impact compared to other crops.
Apricot trees thrive in Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers and cool winters, which suits them well for regions like California, Turkey, and parts of the Mediterranean basin. They are often grown in areas where irrigation is necessary, especially in arid or semi-arid environments.
While apricot trees are not as water-intensive as crops like almonds or avocados, they still require consistent watering during the growing season. Unsustainable irrigation practices can deplete local water resources, especially in drought-prone areas. However, when grown in suitable climates with efficient irrigation systems, water use can be kept at a reasonable level.
Pesticide use in apricot cultivation is generally moderate compared to other fruit crops. Apricot trees are vulnerable to pests like aphids, fruit borers, and diseases such as brown rot and powdery mildew. Conventional orchards may rely on chemical pesticides and fungicides, which can contribute to environmental pollution, harm beneficial insects, and reduce biodiversity.
However, many growers are shifting towards integrated pest management (IPM) practices, organic farming, and biological control methods that reduce chemical use. Organic apricots are increasingly available and are grown without synthetic pesticides, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
When comparing apricots to other fruits, some are more environmentally friendly while others are less so. For example, apples and pears often require more intensive pesticide use due to their susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Bananas and citrus fruits, depending on where they are grown, can have significant environmental impacts due to monoculture practices and heavy pesticide use.
On the other hand, fruits like figs, olives, and dates, which are well-adapted to arid climates and can be grown with minimal water and chemical inputs, tend to be more environmentally friendly.
Apricots, especially those grown using sustainable practices, can be a relatively eco-friendly choice, particularly if they are cultivated in areas where irrigation is managed efficiently and pesticide use is minimized.