Dates
What is Dates?
Dates are the sweet, edible fruit of the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera), native to the Middle East and North Africa. They grow in bunches and are typically harvested when ripe and dried, concentrating their natural sugars and softening their texture. The process can involve sun-drying or controlled dehydration.
Is Dates vegan?
Dates is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Dates gluten-free?
They are a fruit and do not contain gluten.
Is Dates a major allergen?
Dates are not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on labels.
What is Dates used for?
Dates are naturally sweet and are often used as a whole food ingredient to provide sweetness and texture in bars, baked goods, and confectionery.
Is Dates safe?
Dates are a whole food and not regulated as a food additive in the UK.
Why it's used
Dates are naturally sweet and are often used as a whole food ingredient to provide sweetness and texture in bars, baked goods, and confectionery. Their sticky consistency also helps bind ingredients together in products like energy balls and fruit bars. They are frequently found in sweet snacks, breakfast items, and some frozen desserts.
Health notes
Dates are a whole food and not regulated as a food additive in the UK. They are a source of dietary fibre, natural sugars, and various micronutrients. While generally considered safe as part of a balanced diet, their high natural sugar content means they should be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals managing blood sugar levels.
Allergen info
Dates are not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on labels. They are a fruit and do not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Dates
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