importing iranian date fruit

The sweetness of dates is a great accompaniment to many different savory dishes, including cheese, meat and vegetable courses. They also make a great dessert option on their own. Throughout history and in many parts of the world, dates are considered an affordable source of nutrition, comparable to rice, wheat and potatoes. Because they are dried, easily preserved and easily transportable they have an extended shelf life, which is ideal for long periods of travel.

The date fruit is among the sweetest around and is especially popular in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where it is grown in large quantities. The date fruit also has a significant role in Islamic faith. Rich in fibres, minerals and vitamins, dates are traditionally served at iftar tables to break the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Date palms require arid and semi-arid conditions in places with long, hot summers and little to no rainfall for growth. In an agricultural setting, the roots are kept clear of grass and weeds that might hold in humidity and a small trench is dug around the base of the tree. This trench is filled with water so that it may go directly to the roots. When the fruit begins to form on long strands, agricultural workers remove the majority of the fruits to allow the remaining dates to grow to large sizes. These larger sizes are in high demand on the international market. Below is a look at which countries produce the greatest weight of dates every year and to where those dates are exported.