3046 Dates

"Nature's Candy"

A sweet, sticky, and succulent tropical fruit, often enjoyed as a healthy snack and used in various culinary applications.

Also known as: Date Palm Fruit, Palm Dates

Botanical name: Phoenix dactylifera

Dates illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

3046 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

FruitsDatesAll Sizes

Origin

Middle East, North Africa

Storage Temperature

32-36°F (0-2°C) for fresh, 0°F (-18°C) or below for frozen

Shelf Life

Several months for fresh (high humidity), up to 24 months for frozen

Status

Approved

About Dates

Rich in natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants, dates are an excellent source of essential nutrients.

Nutrition Information

Dates are a nutrient-rich food, providing several essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are the nutrition facts for 100g of fresh dates:

Energy value is approximately 277 kcal, Carbohydrates 75g, Fiber 8g, Sugars 64g, Protein 2g, Fat 0.5g, Sodium 2mg, Potassium 656mg, Vitamin A 10 mcg, Vitamin C 0.4 mg, Calcium 64 mg, Copper 0.4 mg, Iron 0.9 mg, Magnesium 54 mg, Manganese 0.3 mg, Phosphorus 64 mg, Zinc 0.3 mg.

Storage & Handling

Maintaining high humidity levels is crucial for the storage of fresh dates. Frozen dates require low temperatures and airtight packaging to prevent moisture and other contaminants.

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 32-36°F (0-2°C) for fresh, 0°F (-18°C) or below for frozen
Humidity: 80-90% for fresh (to maintain moisture), irrelevant for frozen
Packaging: Breathable bags, bins or containers to maintain humidity, airtight for frozen
Shelf Life: Several months for fresh (high humidity), up to 24 months for frozen
Storage Notes: Dates should be stored at a consistent refrigerated temperature to maintain quality. Temperature fluctuations can lead to excessive moisture loss, causing the dates to dry out.

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Tags
3046DatesPhoenix dactyliferaAll SizesFruitsDatesApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
dates
Variety:
Fresh, Frozen
Created:
December 1999
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)


PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).