Fard Dates: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

What Are Fard Dates?

Fard dates, also known as Medjool dates, are a variety of soft, fleshy fruit that come from the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera). They are one of the most popular varieties of dates around the world and originate from Morocco.

The name "Fard" refers to the specific region in Morocco where these dates are grown - the Tafilalet oasis. This is an area along the Ziz River valley known for its hot, dry climate that is perfect for date cultivation.

Fard dates are known for being large in size, soft, moist, and sweet in flavor. When ripe, they are a deep brownish-black color on the outside and a golden amber shade inside. Their flesh is smooth, creamy, and extremely tender with a soft bite.

Compared to other varieties of dates, Fard dates are considered to be premium quality. They have an exceptionally soft texture almost resembling caramel or butter. Their sugar content is very high, ranging from 66-75% which gives them an intensely sweet taste.

The Fard date season runs from September through December, which is when they are harvested, dried, and packaged. Fresh Fard dates contain a high moisture content around 30%. As they dry, the moisture content decreases to between 10-15% giving them a shelf-stable consistency.

Benefits of Fard Dates

Fard dates are highly prized for their exceptional flavor and texture. But beyond their delicious taste, these dates also provide some great health benefits:

• High in Antioxidants - Fard dates are rich sources of antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolics, and carotenoids. These help counteract oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Source of Vitamins & Minerals - They contain good amounts of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, vitamin B6, and niacin. This nutrient profile helps regulate nerve function and metabolism.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects - Compounds like quercetin and kaempferol found in dates possess anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve conditions like arthritis.
• Supports Digestion - The high fiber content in Fard dates encourages regular bowel movements, promotes growth of good gut bacteria, and improves nutrient absorption.
• Natural Sweetener - The sugars in dates provide a healthy alternative to refined sugar. Their glycemic index is around 45 which classifies them as a low-glycemic food.
• Heart Health - Fard dates may help lower LDL cholesterol due to their content of phytosterols like beta-sitosterol as well as antioxidants that protect blood vessels.

So adding Fard dates to your diet provides significant health advantages along with a delicious flavor. Moderating your portions is key to enjoying their benefits.

Types of Fard Dates

There are a few main varieties and grades of Fard dates to be aware of:

Medjool - This is the most common and popular type of soft, tender Fard date. Medjool dates are large in size with a wrinkled skin when dried. Their flesh is succulent and honey-like.

Deglet Noor - Slightly smaller and firmer than Medjools. Deglet Noor dates have a smooth, shiny skin and creamy interior with hints of caramel flavor.

Barhi - These are soft, round Fard dates with thinner skins. Barhi dates are exceptionally sweet and sticky with a lighter brown color.

Dry (Semi-Dry) - Drier in texture but still soft. Often used for cooking. Lower moisture content leads to a more concentrated flavor.

Fresh (Wet)- Harvested early before fully ripening. Moist and tender flesh with very high sugar content. Shorter shelf life.

Organic - Grown without any synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals. Considered the top premium grade.

When purchasing Fard dates, prioritize organic Medjools or Deglet Noors for quality produce and maximum freshness. The type of date comes down to your own taste preferences.

Fard Dates Price

Pricing for Fard dates will depend on a few factors:

• Variety - Medjool and Deglet Noor are the most expensive, Barhi and semi-dry are more affordable
• Size - Larger individual dates tend to cost more per pound
• Grade - Highest grades like "organic" have a premium price
• Source - Dates from California vs imported from Morocco have different costs
• Time of Year - Peak season dates harvested in autumn are generally cheaper
• Retailer - Prices vary between grocery stores, markets, online shops

On average, consumers can expect to pay:

• Regular Deglet Noors: $8 - $15 per pound
• Medjool Dates: $12 - $25 per pound
• Organic Medjools: $22 - $35 per pound

For very high quality, fresh Medjool Fard dates, prices over $30 per pound are common at specialty retailers. But less expensive options are widely available, especially for dry or semi-dry varieties.

Many stores offer bulk bins of dates by the pound which is an affordable way to buy. Watch for sales and deals around the fall harvest season too. And purchasing wholesale 10-15 pound cases can also lower the cost per pound significantly.

Where to Buy Fard Dates

Fard dates can be found at many grocery stores and markets. Here are some of the best places to buy quality Fard dates:

• Middle Eastern Markets - Specialty grocers carrying dates imported directly from Morocco. Largest selection of varieties.
• Natural Food Stores - Health food markets like Whole Foods sell premium organic Medjool dates.
• Farmers Markets - Look for dates from California growers at local markets in the fall months.
• Big Box Stores - Retailers like Costco, Sam's Club, Walmart sell large cases of Deglet Noor dates.
• Online Shops - Order Medjool or Barhi dates from e-commerce sites that ship nationwide.
• Date Farms - Some farms in California sell dates directly to consumers through online stores.
• Bakeries or Delis - Find bulk bins of dates sold by the pound.

For the ultimate freshness and quality assurance, try to find dates grown in the current year. Ask your retailer when their shipment arrived. And check that the dates are not hardened or crystallized which indicates stale produce.

Original Fard Dates

The original Fard dates that all Medjool and Deglet Noor varieties derive from are the dates that have been grown for centuries in the Tafilalet region of Morocco along the Ziz River valley. This hot, dry oasis climate provides ideal conditions for date palms to thrive.
The specific traits of original Fard dates include:

• Grown in Morocco, imported from the Errachidia province
• Harvested at Tamri, Erfoud, Fezna, and Eljeed oases
• Large, soft texture with thin, wrinkled skin
• Dark amber to brownish-black when ripe
• Moist, succulent flesh with high sugar content
• Complex flavor profile - very sweet with caramel and butter notes
• Packaged with "Produit du Maroc" country of origin label
• Available as fresh or dried Medjool, Deglet Noor, Barhi, and Khastawi varieties
• Considered a premium date prized for texture and flavor
• More expensive than American-grown dates

Seeking out dates imported directly from Morocco will provide the true, original Fard date experience. Some high-end grocery stores and specialty markets sell authentic, certified dates from Morocco. You can also order online from sources that ship the dates right after harvesting.

Best Fard Dates

The best quality Fard dates are fresh, soft, moist, and flavorful. Here are tips for picking the top grades when buying Fard Medjool, Deglet Noor and Barhi dates:

• Appearance - Look for plump, large dates with intact, wrinkled skin and no crystallization
• Texture - Flesh should be smooth and tender, not dry or stiff
• Moisture - High moisture content creates a honey-like consistency
• Flavor - Sweet, rich, caramelized sugar taste without fermentation
• Grade - Select dates labeled "premium", "organic" or "No. 1 grade"
• Harvest Date - Choose dates from recent harvesting period for freshness
• Storage - Proper temperature controlled storage preserves quality
• Source- Reputable growers like California date farms or imported directly from Morocco
• Certifications - USDA Organic, non-GMO, Fair Trade, etc. verify production practices
• Variety - Medjools offer ultimate taste and texture but Deglet Noors also have excellent flavor

Taking the time to carefully inspect dates and buy from trusted sellers will ensure you get exceptional, delicious Fard dates every time.

Buy Fard Dates Online

Purchasing Fard dates online is a convenient way to get excellent quality dates delivered right to your door. Here are some top online stores for buying Medjool, Deglet Noor and Barhi dates:

Bard Valley Date Company - Family-owned date farm selling organically grown, certified Medjool and Deglet Noor dates at bardvalley.com.

Date People - This woman-owned company at datepeople.com offers oven-dried Medjool dates and date products.

Nuts.com - Extensive bulk offerings of Medjool, Deglet Noor, Barhi and more at great prices.

iGourmet - Gourmet food site with plump, fresh Medjool dates packaged in resealable pouches.

Amazon- Broad selection of Deglet Noor, Medjool and specialty date varieties available.

Ziyad Brothers- Top importer of premium Medjool dates grown in Morocco sold online.

Farmbox Direct - Farmers market quality Medjools shipped from family farms.

Be sure to checkharvest dates and read customer reviews on online date sources. Reputable sellers will deliver high quality, delicious Fard dates securely packed and shipped.

Fard Dates Online Shopping

Online shopping opens up more choices and convenience for buying delicious Fard Medjool, Deglet Noor, Barhi and other premium dates. Here are some tips for successfully ordering dates online:

• Find Specialty Sellers - Many great date purveyors operate exclusively online
• Check Reviews - Read feedback from other buyers about quality and service
• Compare Prices - Look at cost per pound between different e-commerce sites
• Order in Bulk - Larger quantities often have discounted pricing
• Look for Deals - Some online stores offer promotions and coupon codes
• Consider Shipping - Opt for faster shipping if buying fresh dates
• Monitor Delivery - Make sure you are home to quickly refrigerate perishable dates
• Buy From Recent Harvest - Ask the seller when the dates were harvested
• Store Properly- Refrigeration and air-tight packaging keeps dates fresh after delivery
• Contact Seller With Issues - They should make it right if you are unhappy with product condition