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Our organic dates – pure taste and quality


The comprehensive guide to dates: varieties, cultivation, and uses

Dates are among the oldest cultivated plants known to humankind and have been prized for thousands of years as both a delicacy and a staple food in the Middle East and North Africa. These sweet fruits of the date palm have nourished civilizations through harsh desert conditions, are mentioned in ancient texts, and continue to be celebrated in modern cuisine. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about dates—from their fascinating history and cultivation to the different varieties and creative ways to use them in your kitchen.


Bode Naturkost – because conscious nutrition begins with the origin.


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A package of 500g organic pitted dates by Bode Naturkost
Datteln entsteint Deglet Nour bio, gartenkompostierbarer Beutel 6x500g

Entsteinte und getrocknete Bio Datteln der Sorte Deglet Nour. Die Finger des Lichts, wie die süßen Früchte in der Übersetzung heißen, sind mittel- bis hellbraun und zwischen 3 und 5 cm lang. Sie sind weich bis mittelfest im Biss, schmecken angenehm süß und fruchtig und sind eine gute Ballaststoffquelle. Das macht Datteln zu einer natürlichen, leckeren Nascherei und zu einer beliebten Zutat beim Backen und Kochen. Überall dort, wo natürliche Süße gefragt ist, sind sie die ideale Zutat: Früchtebrot, Kuchen, Gebäckfüllungen, Müsliriegel, Energiebällchen und klein geschnitten als süßes Topping auf Müsli, Porridge oder Salat. Deglet Nour Datteln verfeinern mit ihrer zarten Süße auch Currys und Tomatengerichte. Probieren Sie selbst. Die Hauptanbaugebiete unserer Datteln sind Tunesien und Algerien. Praktisch auch: getrockene Datteln fein gemahlen zum einfachen Süßen vieler Kreationen. Zu unseren Bio Medjool Datteln geht es hier entlang. Entdecken Sie auch unsere Rubrik Produktwissen mit interessanten Fakten rund um unsere feinen Bio Leckereien.

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Content: 3 KG (€8.88 / 1 KG)

Variants from €7.91/kg
€26.64
Organic Medjool Dates
Organic Medjool Dates

The juicy, fruity and fleshy Medjool Date is not least known for its size (available in Large or Jumbo) as the Queen of Dates. The honey-sweet, caramel-like, delicately creamy fruits are highly sought-after all year round and thus one of our top products. They are a delicious snack and a popular ingredient for baking and cooking. Due to their high carbohydrate content, they are an excellent energy source and also a source of dietary fiber.

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Content: 5 KG (€13.69 / 1 KG)

€13.69/kg
€68.43
Top view of diced dried apricots in ceramic bowl
Organic Diced Dates

Dried diced dates coated with rice flour as a separating agent (<5%). The brown pieces are irregularly shaped and mainly 5 to 10 mm in size. These sweet cubes are a source of fibre, perfect for muesli and other mixes, as well as cooking and baking.

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Content: 5 KG (€4.48 / 1 KG)

€4.48/kg
€22.42 previously €44.83
Organic date sugar in compostable bag 6x800g
Organic date sugar in compostable bag 6x800g

Natural sweetness from 100% ground dates. Date sugar adds a special aroma to desserts with its mild sweetness and subtle own flavour. The natural sweetener is ideal for baked goods, desserts and even savoury dishes.

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Content: 4.8 KG (€11.56 / 1 KG)

Variants from €8.76/kg
€55.47
Organic date paste
Organic date paste

Discover our delicious organic date paste, made from fully ripe, washed and ground dates. This unique product contains only one ingredient and retains the delicate, characteristic flavour of dates. This sweet, versatile paste is ideal for baking and confectionery, and for making fruit bars, energy balls, spreads and much more. Thanks to its natural sugar content, date paste is a great alternative to traditional sweeteners. It is also high in fibre. Take advantage of the endless possibilities offered by our organic date paste and add a touch of the Orient to your products and creations!

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Content: 25 KG (€5.61 / 1 KG)

€5.61/kg
€140.17
Dark chocolate bar date sugar 60% cocoa vegan organic Vivani 10x80g
Dark chocolate bar date sugar 60% cocoa vegan organic Vivani 10x80g

This exquisite organic chocolate bar with 60% cocoa is sweetened only with natural sweetness from 100% organic dates! Finally, Vivani fans have a fruity sweetened alternative to conventional chocolate! Combined with cocoa mass, cocoa butter, a pinch of bourbon vanilla and careful processing, the result is a unique taste experience. It combines the delicate notes of cocoa with the fruity sweetness and caramel aroma of dates. Whether on its own or as part of your desserts and baked goods, it is a real treat!

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Content: 0.8 KG (€53.36 / 1 KG)

€53.36/kg
€42.69

What are dates? The ancient superfood

Dates are the fruit of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), one of the oldest cultivated tree species in the world. These sweet, energy-rich fruits grow in large clusters under the palm fronds and have been an important source of food for over 8,000 years. Archaeological finds indicate that date cultivation began as early as 4000 BC in the region of present-day Iraq. Botanically speaking, dates are single-seeded berries with a high sugar content, which gives them their characteristic sweetness. The fruit consists of a thin skin (epicarp), sweet flesh (mesocarp), and a hard pit inside. What makes dates special is their exceptional nutrient profile—they are rich in natural sugars, fiber, potassium, magnesium, and various antioxidants Throughout history, dates have been referred to as “bread of the desert” and “cake for the poor,” underscoring their importance as a reliable food source in arid regions where few other crops could thrive. Their long shelf life and high energy content made them ideal for desert travelers and trade caravans traversing inhospitable landscapes.

Extension

Date palms require specific growing conditions to thrive and produce high-quality fruit. These majestic trees prefer hot, dry climates with minimal rainfall and low humidity. They need plenty of sunshine and access to groundwater or irrigation. The saying “dates must have their feet in water and their heads in the fire of heaven” perfectly describes their growing requirements.

The growth cycle of dates Date palms are dioecious, meaning there are male and female trees. Only female trees produce fruit, but they need pollen from male trees to do so. In commercial date cultivation, pollination is typically done manually to ensure consistent yields. Farmers collect pollen from male flowers and carefully apply it to female flowers during the flowering season.


After pollination, dates go through four different stages of development: 

Kimri stage: The fruit is hard, green, and bitter, with rapid weight gain. 

Khalal stage: The fruit reaches its full size, changes color (depending on the variety), and develops sweetness. 

Rutab Stadium: The fruit begins to soften and turn brown as the sugars continue to develop. 

Tamar stage: The fully ripe fruit becomes soft or semi-dried with maximum sweetness.

Harvest

Depending on the variety and intended use, dates can be harvested at different stages. Most commercial dates are harvested in the late khalal or rutab stage and allowed to ripen to the tamar stage during post-harvest treatment. Harvesting is typically done by experienced workers who climb the tall palm trees or use mechanical lifting devices to reach the date clusters. After harvesting, dates undergo cleaning, sorting, and classification processes. Some varieties require additional processing such as hydration (moisture addition) or dehydration (moisture removal) to achieve the desired texture and extend shelf life. The processed dates are then packaged for worldwide distribution.

Organic dates vs. conventional dates

Understanding the differences

Organic date cultivation

Organic date farming follows strict principles that prohibit the use of synthetic chemicals and instead rely on sustainable agricultural practices. Organic date farmers rely on natural fertilizers such as compost and manure to nourish the palms. They control pests through biological controls, beneficial insects, and careful monitoring rather than synthetic pesticides. Organic certification requires farmers to follow these practices for a minimum period (typically 3 years) before their dates can be certified as organic. The certification process involves regular inspections and documentation to verify compliance with organic standards. After harvesting, organic dates are processed without chemical preservatives, artificial colors, or flavor enhancers. They are not treated with sulfur dioxide (a common preservative) or coated with glucose syrup for shine and preservation.

Conventional date production

In conventional date cultivation, synthetic fertilizers can be used to promote growth and higher yields. These farms often use chemical pesticides and fungicides to control pests and diseases that can affect date palms and their fruits. After harvesting, conventional dates may undergo treatments that are not permitted in organic production. These may include fumigation with sulfur dioxide to preserve color and prevent darkening, and coating with glucose syrup to add shine and maintain moisture content. While these treatments extend shelf life and improve appearance, they represent significant differences from organic production methods. It is important to note that conventional date production must also comply with food safety regulations regarding acceptable levels of chemical residues.

✔ Organic dates

Free from synthetic pesticide residues No artificial preservatives or coatings Often a more natural appearance Produced using environmentally friendly methods May have subtle differences in taste and texture

✘ Conventional dates

May contain traces of agrochemicals Often treated with preservatives such as sulfur dioxide May have a glucose syrup coating for appearance Generally more uniform appearance Often cheaper than organic options

Did you know that...

...that dates have been cultivated for over 6,000 years and are considered the “fruit of life” in many cultures? Medjool dates can grow particularly large—some weigh up to 24 grams per fruit! Dates also contain natural fiber, minerals such as potassium and magnesium, and have been used for centuries as an energy-boosting snack for travelers in hot desert regions.

Using dates in your kitchen

Dates are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, offering natural sweetness and rich flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. Their sticky texture and caramel-like taste make them an excellent natural sweetener and binding agent in many recipes. 

Dates as a natural sweetener 

One of the most popular uses for dates in modern cuisine is as a natural alternative to refined sugar. Date paste, made by pureeing soaked dates with water, can replace sugar in many recipes on a 1:1 basis. This substitute not only adds sweetness, but also fiber, potassium, and other nutrients that are lacking in refined sugar. 

To make date paste: 

Soak 1 cup of pitted dates in hot water for 30 minutes, drain (reserving some of the liquid), and purée until smooth. Add the reserved liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Popular culinary uses 

  • Energy balls and bars: Pureed dates serve as both a sweetener and a binding agent in no-bake energy snacks.
  • Smoothies: Add natural sweetness and thickness to fruit and vegetable smoothies. 
  • Baked goods: Add chopped dates to cookies, cakes, and bread for moisture and sweetness. 
  • Stuffed dates: Fill them with nuts, cheese, or spices for elegant appetizers. 
  • Savory dishes: Add them to tagines, stews, and grain dishes for a sweet and savory balance. 
  • Salads: Chop and add to grain or green salads for sweetness and textural contrast. 
  • Breakfast: Mix into overnight oats or add to yogurt and granola. 

Traditional date dishes 

Dates have been a central part of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine for thousands of years. Some traditional preparations include: 

  • Stuffed Medjool dates: Filled with almonds or walnuts and sometimes dipped in chocolate 
  • Date syrup (Dibs): A thick syrup made from dates, used as a sweetener. 
  • Ma'amoul: Semolina cookies filled with date paste and nuts 
  • Tajines: Moroccan stews that often contain dates for sweetness 
  • Date bread: dense, sweet bread with chopped dates

Our recipe ideas · Dates

Stuffed dates with goat cheese & Walnuts (savory)

Ingredients:

  • 12 large Medjool dates

  • 50 g fresh goat cheese

  • 12 walnut halves

  • Honey for drizzling (optional)

Preparation:

  • Cut the dates lengthwise and remove the pits.
  • Fill each with a teaspoon of goat cheese.
  • Place walnut halves on top and press down lightly.
  • Drizzle with a little honey to taste

  • Serve cold or heat briefly in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.


Date energy balls

Ingredients (for approx. 12–15 balls):

  • 200 g pitted dates (organic)

  • 100 g nuts of your choice (e.g., almonds or walnuts)

  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or shredded coconut

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • pinch of salt

Preparation:

  • Process the dates together with the nuts in a blender or food processor to form a sticky mixture.
  • Add vanilla extract, salt, and optionally cocoa powder or coconut flakes, and mix briefly until everything is well combined.
  • Use your hands to form small balls (approx. 2–3 cm in diameter).
  • The balls can be rolled in coconut flakes, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts.
  • Leave to set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Date and coconut smoothie (sweet and creamy)

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 4 pitted dates

  • 1 banana

  • 200 ml almond milk (or other plant-based milk)

  • 2 tablespoons oatmeal

  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder or 1 teaspoon shredded coconut 

  • Ice cubes as desired

Preparation:

  • Place all ingredients in a blender and purée until creamy.
  • Pour into glasses and sprinkle with coconut flakes or cocoa powder.

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date sirup organic
date sirup organic

Organic date syrup offers an exquisite sweetness derived solely from dates. After harvesting, the dates are crushed and cooked before being pitted, and the resulting juice is pressed. By boiling and filtering this juice, a mild, natural sweetener is created that retains the delicate flavour of the date. Date syrup is a versatile ingredient that adds a special flavour to bars, nutty spreads, baked goods, crunchies and desserts. Its distinctive caramel-fruity flavour enhances the aroma of many products. Although it is less sweet than glucose or fructose syrup, it has a higher mineral content. It gives products a dark colour. Furthermore, our date syrup is easily soluble in liquids.

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Content: 10 KG (€5.77 / 1 KG)

€5.77/kg
€57.67 previously €144.18
Organic Diced Dates without Rice Flour
Organic Diced Dates without Rice Flour

Dried diced dates without rice flour. The brown pieces have irregular shapes and are mostly 5 to 10 mm in size. These sweet cubes are a source of fibre and are suitable for muesli, other mixtures, as well as for cooking and baking.

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Content: 5 KG (€5.13 / 1 KG)

€5.13/kg
€25.63
Organic Medjool Dates 1kg
Organic Medjool Dates 1kg

The juicy, fruity, and fleshy Medjool Date, known as the Queen of Dates due to its size (available in Large or Jumbo), is a honey-sweet, caramel-like, delicately creamy fruit. Highly sought after all year round, it's one of our top products and a delicious snack. Perfect for baking and cooking, these energy-boosting dates are rich in carbohydrates and a source of dietary fiber.

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Variants from €13.69/kg
€15.78
Better Crunchy - Oat & Date Sugar organic 1 kg
Better Crunchy - Oat & Date Sugar organic 1 kg

Why is this crunchy not just good, but better? The crispy baked flakes convince with the natural sweetness of dried dates - free from refined sugar. Baked without palm oil, rounded off with exotic coconut. A crunchy breakfast delight for all conscious connoisseurs. It tastes pure, in yogurt, milk, plant-based alternatives or juice, as well as refined with fruits. For a crunchy start to the day and also for in between. Here you will find date-sweetened enjoyment with aromatic red fruits or crunchy nuts.

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Variants from €8.01/kg
€10.15

Conclusion: The timeless appeal of dates

From ancient desert caravans to modern health-conscious kitchens, dates have maintained their status as one of nature's most remarkable foods. Their natural sweetness, impressive nutritional profile, and remarkable versatility make them a valuable addition to any pantry. Whether you enjoy the caramel richness of a Medjool or the honey notes of a Deglet Nour, dates offer a world of flavors to discover. By understanding the differences between organic and conventional production, you can fully appreciate these ancient fruits in your modern lifestyle. We encourage you to experiment with different varieties and discover your personal favorites. From simple snacking to creative culinary applications, dates continue to prove why they have been prized across cultures and continents for millennia.

Certified & Sustainable – our quality promise


Dates from Bode Naturkost come from certified organic cultivation and naturally bear the EU organic label. This guarantees that no synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetic engineering are used—from cultivation to packaging. 

Our supply chains are transparent, our partner companies are regularly audited and certified according to recognized standards (e.g., organic, IFS, Naturland—depending on origin). This is how we ensure that the environment, people, and products are in harmony. 

For us, sustainability does not end in the field: We focus on resource-saving packaging, short transport routes within Europe, and a consistent ecological approach along the entire value chain—from cultivation to storage.

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