What is the difference between fresh and dried dates? To start with, you can see dried and fresh dates as completely different foods. Think of grapes and raisins. Both are delicious but completely different in taste, texture, nutritional value and sugar levels. Discover why we only sell fresh Dalia Sukkary dates and why they are a true celebration of fruit!
Taste and texture
Our Dalia Sukkary dates are naturally soft, melt-in-the-mouth soft, and full of a rich caramel flavour. They naturally have a high moisture content, making them even softer and more delicious. When dates are dried, they become firmer and chewier. The drying process can also cause them to lose their soft, caramel-like flavour, resulting in a taste that is more reminiscent of plain sugar. Dried dates do offer the benefit of a longer shelf life outside the refrigerator. However, if you're looking for dates with the softest texture and the fullest and richest flavour, then the decision practically makes itself.
Sugars and vitamins
It is not just taste and texture that set them apart. Thanks to their high moisture content, fresh dates will help your body feel satisfied sooner. On top of that, dried dates contain the same amount of sugars as fresh dates, but in a much more concentrated form. This combination makes it all too easy to consume way too much sugar when it comes to eating dried dates. In addition, the drying process can cause dates to lose some of their vitamins. Which is a real shame, especially since fresh dates are naturally packed with nutrients.
Which one to choose?
Both types of dates qualify as a healthy snack. Looking for dates with the longest shelf life? Then dried dates are a great option. Prefer the softest, melt-in-the-mouth dates? Then fresh dates are definitely the way to go. Pure fresh fruit, with nothing unnecessary added. Naturally sweet, just as it should be!
