Dates

Dates are the sweet edible fruit of the date palm, eaten either fresh or dried. Date palms bear fruit after 4 to 8 years after which they commercially harvested for another 7 to 10 years. Three main varieties of dates exist: soft, semi-dry, and dry, with their color ranging from bright red to bright yellow depending on the variety. Dates are oval-cylindrical in shape and measure about 3–7 cm in length, and 2–3 cm in diameter.

Archeological evidence of date palm cultivation dates back to 6000 BC, with evidence found in Egypt, Arabia and the Indus Valley. Today, dates are mainly cultivated in Iraq, Arabia, Morocco, India, Mexico, and in some parts of the United States.

Uses of dates

As a condiment: The soft and sweet dry fruit is enjoyed worldwide as a nutritious snack. Traditionally dates play an important role in the Islamic culture as they are the first foods (along with milk or yoghurt), to be consumed for Iftar, after the sun has set during the holy month of Ramadan. Originally used extensively in Arabic, Indian, Pakistani and North African cooking, dates are now being incorporated in the cuisines of other countries as well. Date nut bread, date covered chocolates, date syrup and date pudding are popular all over the world. Dates are also used to make date vinegar and sparkling date juice, a non-alcoholic version of champagne.

For general health: Dates are considered by nutritionists as one of the 'super-foods', as they are packed with most vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed for a balanced diet. They are also rich in dietary fiber (which helps in lowering LDL cholesterol) and vitamin A (which contributes towards good eyesight). Dates also contain several important antioxidant flavonoids such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zea-xanthin, which help in protecting against colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Furthermore, dates contain a high percentage of iron (0.90 mg for every 100 g), and is prescribed as a therapeutic aid for those suffering from anemia.

Selection and storage of dates

Most grocery stores stock dates all through the year and consumers can choose from the soft, semi-dry, or dried varieties. Good quality dates should be firm and free from mold or fungus.

Dates stay fresh for up to a year when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating dates, as they tend to dry out and lose moisture when stored in low temperatures.

Purchase superior quality dates at Ameen Exports

Ameen Exports, located in Cochin, Kerala, offer superior quality dates to wholesalers, packers, distributors, fast food companies, restaurants, large importers, and supermarket chains the world over. We maintain our quality standards by sourcing our products directly from planters who comply with our pre-set quality values, and then processing them in our modern processing unit. We also offer a wide range of customized packaging and branding solutions that our clients can benefit from.