The long held belief that prunes have a laxative effect has been shot down by the European Food Safety Authority, reports the Telegraph.
After reviewing three studies on prune consumption, experts said there was "insufficient" evidence of a link between the dried plums and normal bowel function.
In disputing the conclusion, other experts note that prunes contain two substances which have laxative effects, sorbitol and dihydrophenylisatin.
They also added that the high-fiber content of prunes also support improved bowel function.
While the findings have caused debate, nevertheless, prunes remain a healthy choice, laxative or not.