Dates are one of the most nutritious and delicious fruits that are now easily available in India. Often referred to as nature’s candy, dates make for a healthy snack that is rich in various vitamins, minerals and fiber. They are naturally sweet in taste and come packed with multiple health benefits.

We reviewed 20 top selling date variants in India to come up with the list of the 10 best dates you can eat for optimal health and taste. Our criteria focused on nutritional value, taste, pricing, health benefits and ease of availability in India. For each date, we provide a detailed review highlighting its key features, benefits and our expert opinions. We also share tips on how to select the best dates along with information on the different varieties available. Read on to find out the best dates you should be eating regularly.

1. Manna Black Dates 750g Khajur Khajoor Fresh 100% Natural

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Description

Manna Black Dates are premium quality dates that are imported to India. These fresh dates have an intense sweet taste and smooth, velvety texture.

Key Features

• 100% natural premium dates
• Imported variant
• Intensely sweet taste
• Smooth, velvety texture
• Rich in iron, fiber and vitamins
• 750g pack

Our Expert Opinion

The Manna Black Dates stand out for their rich, sweet taste that is simply hard to resist. What makes them superior is that they are 100% natural with no added preservatives or chemicals. The fiber and vitamin content is also much higher compared to regular dates available in the market. For date lovers who enjoy intense, natural sweetness, these Manna dates are a must-try. Their smooth, velvety texture literally melts in the mouth. The 750g family pack is value for money and stays fresh for long once opened.

2. REEM SAFAWI Dates

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Description

The Reem Safawi Dates are fresh, soft, moist dates that make for a delicious and healthy snack. With their rich taste and high nutritional value, these dates are suitable for consumption by all age groups.

Key Features

• Fresh and moist dates
• Imported from Saudi Arabia
• Safawi variety
• Rich in iron and calcium
• 400g pack
• Ready to eat
• Suitable for all ages

Our Expert Opinion

The Reem Safawi Dates stand out for their freshness and rich mineral content including iron and calcium which are especially beneficial. Their moist, soft texture makes them easy to relish by people across different age groups from kids to the elderly. Unlike many other dry date variants, these fresh Saudi dates have a naturally sweet taste and juicy mouthfeel. The Safawi variety is considered among the best for its flavor and smooth skin. For those looking for an authentic, nutritious date experience, the Reem Safawi Dates are a great choice. The 400g pack makes snacking on these vitamin-rich dates convenient.

3. JEWEL FARMER Kalmi Dates with Protein

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Description

Jewel Farmer Kalmi Dates are soft, succulent Saudi dates that are nutritionally dense with protein, fiber and carbs. These sun-dried dates have an intense, caramelized flavor.

Key Features

• Kalmi variety dates from Saudi Arabia
• High protein and fiber
• Rich in carbs for energy
• Unsulfured
• Intense caramelized flavor
• Soft and succulent
• Ready to eat
• 650g value pack

Our Expert Opinion

The Jewel Farmer Kalmi Dates stand out for their luscious, soft texture and rich caramelized taste. Grown in the nutrient-rich soils of Saudi Arabia, these dates are packed with protein, fiber and energizing carbs. They have been naturally sun-dried without any chemical treatments, retaining their wholesomeness and intense flavor. Their rich taste and nutrition make these soft dates an ideal snack for both adults and kids. The 650g pack ensures you can keep enjoying these delicious, healthy Saudi dates for weeks.

4. AKD MASALA Dates with Protein

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Description

AKD Masala Dates are plump, moist dates that are a powerhouse of protein, fiber and carbs. These sun-dried soft dates make for a tasty and filling snack.

Key Features

• High in protein, fibre and carbs
• No added sulphur
• Naturally sun-dried
• Plump and moist
• Soft texture
• Ready to eat
• 200g pack

Our Expert Opinion

The AKD Masala Dates truly stand out for their exceptional nutritional profile. With high protein, fiber and energizing carbs, these dates make for a wholesome snack that keeps you full and focused. We love that they have been naturally sun-dried to retain the moisture and goodness. The dates have a delightfully soft, smooth texture and sweet caramelized flavor. Their rich taste and nutrition make them suitable for all age groups. The 200g pack is apt for a small family to enjoy these protein-rich wonders.

5. Leeve Dryfruits Brand Premium Dried Dates

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Description

The Leeve Dryfruits Sukha Kharik dates are premium dried dates packed with natural sweetness and health benefits. With their dehydrated, wrinkled appearance, they make for a tasty snack on-the-go.

Key Features

• Dried and dehydrated dates
• No preservatives/additives
• Packed with natural sweetness
• Wrinkled appearance
• Perfect healthy snack
• Ready to eat
• 400g pack
• Easy to carry

Our Expert Opinion

The Leeve Sukha Kharik dates truly stand out for their all-natural preparation retaining the wholesomeness and taste. We love their signature wrinkled look that sets them apart. The dates have an intense, concentrated sweetness owing to the dehydration process. This also makes them rich in various nutrients. Their dry, fibrous texture lends a nice chewy mouthfeel. For those looking for an unadulterated, additive-free natural date snack, these Sukha Kharik wonders make an excellent choice. The 400g pack is apt for keeps these ready-to-eat dates handy for quick, healthy nibbling.

6. Happilo Premium International Omani Dates 250g

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Description

Happilo Premium Omani Dates are naturally sweet, soft dates sourced from Oman. With their rich taste and high nutritional value, they make for a healthy snacking option.

Key Features

• Pure Omani dates
• Naturally sweet taste
• Soft, smooth texture
• High nutritional value
• Rich in vitamins and minerals
• 250g pack
• Natural sweetener

Our Expert Opinion

If you are looking for authentic, sweet tasting Omani dates, the Happilo Premium variant is simply the best choice. Sourced specially from Oman, these dates have a signature taste and flavor that date connoisseurs love. Unlike lower quality dry fruits, these dates are naturally rich in various vitamins and minerals. Additionally, their soft texture, smooth skin and sweetness make them a delight to consume. The 250g packaging keeps the dates fresh for a good amount of time. For those with a sweet tooth looking for healthier alternatives, these Premium Omani dates make for a tasty, nourishing choice over refined sugar or candies.

7. Kimia Original Fresh Irani Dates 500gm

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Description

The Kimia Original Irani Dates are juicy, fleshy dates freshly sourced from Iran. With their rich taste and high juice content, they make for a delicious nutritional snack.

Key Features

• Fresh Irani dates
• High juice content
• Rich sweet taste
• Soft fleshy texture
• No added preservatives
• 500gm pack
• Healthy and nutritious

Our Expert Opinion

The Kimia Original Irani Dates truly stand out for their exceptional taste and flavor that Iranian dates are so famous for worldwide. These dates have been freshly sourced, ensuring their signature fleshy texture and intense sweet taste is preserved. Unlike dried fruits, these dates are naturally moist and juicy – qualities we absolutely love. Their rich taste and snack-friendly size makes them ideal for savouring across different age groups. For those tired of low-quality dried dates, these authentic Iranian wonders offer a world of difference with their fleshy flesh and sweet nectar inside.

8. Del Monte Royal Fresh Arabian Dates 500 Grams

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Description

Del Monte Royal Fresh Arabian Dates are naturally juicy, pulpy dates packed with wholesome nutrition. These fresh dates have a rich, caramelized taste.

Key Features

• Fresh Arabian dates
• Juicy pulpy texture
• Rich sweet taste
• High nutritional value
• No artificial flavours/colours
• 500g pack

Our Expert Opinion

Del Monte Royal Arabian Dates truly stand out with their signature freshness and rich sweet taste. Unlike many dried dates with reduced quality, these dates retain their moisture and juicy pulpy texture. Their caramelized flavor and soft seeds make them very palatable and delicious. Each bite oozes with nectar sweetness. We also like that there are no artificial processes used retaining nutrition. For those looking to taste authentic, good quality Arabian dates, the Del Monte Royal variant makes for an excellent choice. The 500g pack makes them perfect for enjoying with friends and family.

9. Nutraj Premium Gold Arabian Dates 1kg

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Description

Nutraj Premium Gold Arabian Dates are additive-free, naturally nutritious dried dates perfect for healthy snacking. With their intense flavour and wholesome goodness, they make a smart choice.

Key Features

• Premium Arabian dates
• Naturally dried
• Intense sweet flavor
• No preservatives/added sugar
• Rich in iron, fibre and vitamins
• 1kg pack (500g x 2)
• Healthy dried fruit snack

Our Expert Opinion

When it comes to premium quality Arabian dried dates, the Nutraj Gold variant is clearly the best choice with its signature intense flavor and wholesome properties. Unlike lower quality dates filled with additives and sulphur, these dates retain their intense taste as they are naturally processed. Their exceptional iron, fibre and vitamin content stems from this 100% natural preparation style that retains nutrition very well. We love snacking on these dates through the day knowing that the 1kg pack delivers absolute value-for-money while promoting good health – a win-win combination!

10. Nutty Gritties Premium Kalmi Dates- 350g

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Description

Nutty Gritties Premium Kalmi Dates are juicy, delicious Saudi dates perfect as a pick-me-up healthy snack. Packed with natural sweetness and instant energy, they come in a handy 350g resealable pouch.

Key Features

• Kalmi dates from Saudi
• Juicy and delicious
• No artificial colors/flavours
• Naturally sweet
• Instant energy booster
• Resealable 350g pouch
• Perfect healthy snack

Our Expert Opinion

When you need a quick energy boost, the Nutty Gritties Premium Kalmi dates are clearly the best choice. Unlike artificially flavored snacks, these Saudi dates are naturally juicy and sweet, livening up your tastebuds and giving an instant rush of glucose energy. Their resealable packaging ensures you can keep enjoying these flavourful Kalmi beauties for days together. We love that there are no unhealthy additives used retaining wholesomeness and quality. For the days you are feeling low on energy or craving something sweet sans guilt, we highly recommend giving these delicious instant energizers a try.

Comparison for Best Dates to Eat in India

How to Choose the Best Dates

With so many varieties of dates available today, choosing the right ones suited to your taste and needs can get confusing. Here are some useful tips to select the best quality dates:

• Check expiry date – Always check the expiry date or best before information before purchasing dates. Fresher dates tend to taste better.
• Avoid added colors or flavors – Select dates that have no artificial additives like colors or flavors added to them. Natural dates retain maximum taste and nutrition.
• Select variety – Choose your dates variety based on intended use and preference. Soft, fleshy dates are good for direct consumption whereas drier dates are better suited for cooking dishes. Popular varieties like Medjool, Deglet Noor and Honey are safe bets.
• Examine texture – Good quality dates should feel soft and supple with intact skin. Discard very hard or crystallized dates with cracks as they tend to have higher preservative content.
• Read nutritional label – Check nutritional content especially sugar, fibre and mineral levels to understand goodness of dates better.

Different Types of Dates Available in India

There are over 100 varieties of dates available globally that differ in shape, size, texture, taste and nutritional properties. Some of the major types of dates available easily in India are:

• Medjool – These are one of the most popular premium varieties of dates. They have a large, soft and moist texture with caramelized sweet flavor.
• Deglet Noor – These dates have a smooth texture and mild honey-like flavor. They are firmer as compared to Medjool.
• Barhee/Barhi – Barhee dates aresoft, round fruits with rich toffee-like taste. They are a good natural sweetener in dishes.
• Hayani – Hayani dates are extra-sweet with dark caramel notes. They have a signature tooth resistance similar to dried figs.
• Safawi– These Saudi dates are super-soft with a very juicy mouthfeel. They are rich in various minerals and makes for a tasty healthy snack.
• Ajwa – Regarded as one of the most expensive date varieties globally, these soft, nearly-black dates are exceptionally sweet with multiple health benefits. They are grown in Saudi Arabia.

Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care

• Dates come packed with immense wholesome goodness provided you store and use them right. Here are some tips for the same:
• If buying dates in bulk, transfer the dates into an air-tight container as soon as possible post opening original pack. This prevents direct exposure to air or moisture that breeds microbes making dates mushy and stale faster.
• Do not store dates next to strongly aromatic spices, condiments etc as they tend to easily absorb nearby smells.
• Keep dried dates stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat for longer shelf life. Avoid refrigerating them unless specified on the pack.
• Consume the dates well within the Best Before period for optimal freshness and taste.
• Avoid storing dates after opening for too long. The drying and crystallization of natural sugars present makes them undesirable for consumption over time.
• For best taste and nutrition benefits, try to use multiple date varieties in your diet instead of only one specific type.

Conclusion

Dates offer amazing taste and superb health benefits provided you choose the right variety well-suited to your preferences. Use our guide on the 10 best date variants in India as a starting point to explore and relish these natural candy wonders. With their abundant goodness and culinary uses, bringing home some dates can literally sweeten up your life!

FAQs about Best Dates to Eat

Q. Which dates are best to eat ?

A. The best dates to eat are good quality fresh or semi-dried dates that retain maximum flavor and nutritional properties. Varieties like Medjool, Barhee, Honey, Deglet Noor, Safawi and Ajwa make for delicious choices rich in health benefits. Always check the texture and manufacturing details before purchasing any dates.

Q. Which time is best to eat dates ?

A. The best time to eat dates is as a morning or evening snack between main meals. Dates are instantly energizing thanks to their high glucose levels. Their fiber also promotes better digestion when had on an empty stomach or after a workout. While dates are great through the day, having them mid-morning or mid-evening provides sustained energy.

Q. How do you know which dates are the freshest?

A. Check for intact, supple skin without any visible crystals or drying. Avoid extremely hard, tough dates or ones with cracks on surface. Soft, smooth-skinned dates with shine are usually freshest.

Q. Why soak dates before eating?

A. Soaking dates especially drier ones in water for 30 mins makes them softer and easier to chew while enhancing their sweet taste. Additionally, soaking helps release some of their fibers and antioxidants better.

Q. What are dates good for?

A. Dates are incredibly nutritious, packed with various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They provide natural energy, aid digestion, build bone health and help regulate blood sugar levels too among other benefits.

Q. Are dates safe for diabetics?

A. In moderation, dried dates and certain fresh varieties like Medjool are considered safe for most diabetics as they have low glycemic load despite their sweetness. But do consult your doctor.

Q. Can dates be eaten daily?

A. Yes, eating a few dates daily provides many benefits thanks to their exceptional nutrient profile. However limit portion to about 3-4 dates per day avoiding health issues. Drink water too for good digestion.

Conclusion

So bring home some goodness in the form of juicy, nutritious dates today. Let them sweeten up your snacks, drinks, desserts and meals with their abundant taste and vitamins. We are sure your exploration into the distinctive world of premium dates will continue as you try and test their marvelous varieties.