Dried Dates

Dried dates are the dehydrated fruit of the date palm tree, native to the Middle East and North Africa. They are typically produced by sun-drying or using food dehydrators, which removes most of the water content, concentrating their natural sugars and nutrients.

Dried dates are primarily used as a natural sweetener and texturizer in foods. Their sticky, chewy nature makes them ideal for energy bars, baked goods, and cereals, where they also contribute fiber and flavor.

Dried dates are recognized as safe by the FDA and are generally considered GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe). They are a source of dietary fiber, potassium, and various antioxidants. While generally healthy in moderation, their high sugar content means excessive consumption could contribute to calorie intake. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated dates, but no specific numeric limits are typically set for whole foods.