FAQ
How many dates can I eat per day?
Do dates make you gain weight?
How should I store dates?
It depends on the variety:
Fresh dates (Routab) should be stored in the refrigerator.
Ripe, dry dates (Tamr) can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container.
What can I do with dates?
Dates can be eaten as a healthy snack or used in recipes such as pastries, smoothies, fruit salads, or as a natural sweetener.
Do dates cause constipation?
No. Dates are rich in fiber and actually help prevent or relieve constipation, especially when eaten with other fruits.
What are the health benefits of dates?
Dates are packed with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. They support digestive health and provide energy.
Are worms in dates dangerous?
Sometimes you may find worms (carob moth larvae) in dates. They are not harmful to health, although their presence is undesirable.
How many calories are in a date?
Are dates good for your health?
Yes. When eaten in moderation, dates are considered a “superfood,” thanks to their wide range of nutrients.
Are dates laxative?
Yes. Due to their high fiber content, dates have a gentle natural laxative effect and can help regulate bowel movements, especially when eaten with other fruits.
Which is better: Routab or Tamr?
Both are delicious! If you prefer melt-in-the-mouth textures and honeyed flavors, choose Routab dates—they provide a quick sugar boost. If you like a more caramelized taste and firmer texture, go for Tamr dates, which are also recommended for nutrition and endurance.
Do Routab and Tamr require the same storage?
No. Routab needs refrigeration, while Tamr can be stored at room temperature in a dry place.
How do dates grow?
Dates grow on the date palm in hot, dry climates. The tree can reach 15–30 m in height, and the fruits develop in clusters beneath the crown.
Is it good to eat dates every day?
Yes. Eating dates daily is excellent for health due to their high content of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
How do you store fresh dates?
Place fresh dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept this way for several months while maintaining their freshness.
What are the best dates?
The best dates depend on personal preference. Popular varieties include Medjool (large and sweet), Sukary (exceptionally soft), Ajwa (great for breakfast), Khudry, and Bahri Routab (incredibly soft).
On which tree do dates grow?
Dates grow on the date palm, a tree native to the desert regions of the Middle East and North Africa.
Should I wash dates?
Yes. Like grapes or other fruits, it is recommended to wash dates to remove any dust or dirt.
When should you eat dates?
Dates can be eaten any time of the day:
Tamr (dry) are especially enjoyed at breakfast or before/after physical activity for energy.
Routab (moist) provide an even faster energy boost.
Can dates be frozen?
Yes, especially Routab. Store them in an airtight freezer bag for several months, then allow them to thaw at room temperature before eating.
What do the terms Routab and Tamr mean?
Routab refers to a date at a medium maturity stage (“moist” in Arabic), harvested before full ripeness.
Tamr refers to fully ripe dates with firmer texture and more concentrated flavor.
Is there a taste difference between Routab and Tamr?
Yes. Routab is soft and very sweet, while Tamr is more concentrated, less sweet, and firmer in texture.
Can dates spoil?
Yes. Fresh dates (Routab) can ferment or mold if exposed to heat or moisture, while Tamr dates are more stable over time.
