Deglet Noor Dates

Deglet Noor is a date variety from the family tree of Phoenix Dactylifera. It is most often confused with the Medjoul dates, another type of the same botanic family. Yet they differ significantly. This calls for attentive scrutiny.

In the Arabic culture every element, human, fauna, or flora, is usually carefully named. Names carry symbolic significance. There is always a crucial reference underneath every nomenclature.

Deglet Noor dates are one such instance. This variety of dates is not simply named; it is minutely described and celebrated for its inherent uniqueness. The name translates as the dates of light. These dates are so transparent that when you hold them against the sun, the seed can be seen. It is as if the light is navigating right through it. This golden fruit seems to be symbolizing purity, cleanliness, and transparency.

When the label of these dates pops up in random conversations among people from the Middle East or North Africa, homes to the palm orchards, a mixture of feelings immediately appears on the faces. People simply adore Noor dates. In case you are not familiar with this variety of dates, you have been missing a lot. So let’s discover together this ancient wonder.

What is Deglet Noor?

While palm trees are usually traced to the Iranian gulf and sub-Indian continent, Deglet Noor palm trees are traced to Algeria and Tunisia. Though the origin of the cultivar might not be archived; few historical records, such asLe palmier-dattierby Pierre Munier, reveal that this type of palms was first cultivated in Algeria during the 13 century. Later, it was brought to Tunisia at the beginning of the 17 century.

Deglet Noor dates enjoy global renown thanks to the superior quality and honey-like taste. Besides, the appealing translucent color distinguishes it from all date varieties. The oval-shaped dates are generally light yellow-brown colored. Their flesh is extremely soft. Both the look and taste of this fruit are mouthwatering. Their sweetness makes it a futile effort to resist indulging in excessive consumption.

Top exporters and producers of Deglet Noor dates:

Tunisia and Algeria, the birth countries of this variety, account for the world’s supply of Noor dates. Their main commercial trading is conducted with the European Union.

With vast palm groves sweeping an important part of Kbeli and Tozeur, Tunisia has around 50 percent of the world's palm trees. These two cities on the fringe of the desert have integrated the plantation of palms into their daily lives. Delglet Noor is the pillar of existence for these territories and their inhabitants. This tradition has led to the development of high quality and productive orchards.

The blooming cultivation of palms made Tunisia the number one exporter of Deglet Noor. It possesses a 48 percent market share. France is a loyal customer with more than 10000 tones of imports per year.

Organic bio dates are now a trend among palm farmers. Rigorous efforts in the field aim at further enhancing the quality of Deglet Noor dates and cultivating superior healthy fruits. Horchani orchards are among the pioneers of this ecological plantation.

Algeria ranks second in global exports of Deglet Noor dates. Its market share does not exceed 20 percent. It provides around 17 percent of the European Union’s needs for dates. Although Algeria is the first producer of this variety, it seems to be lacking behind in terms of exports.

Nutrition value of Deglet Noor:

Dates are generally high in calories. A serving of 100 grams contains 282 calories. Most calories come from the sugar content which could be a problem. However, controlling your daily intake can make all the difference.

Deglet Noor dates like all dates have low percentages of fats. The former contains 0.4 grams of fats per serving. It is also low in sodium, with 2 grams per serving. On the other hand, it is rich in dietary fiber, accumulating 8 grams per 100g. And it contains 2.5 grams of proteins.

These dates are a tremendously rich source of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. For this reason, these fruits represent a heavenly asylum for health nuts. With the right daily dose of dates, you could boost your health conditions with simple hacks.

Nevertheless, 63 grams of sugar per serving can pose imminent threats. People with diabetes or other health issues should control their consumption and consult their doctors. In between solutions always work. So adjust your eating habits to your condition and enjoy the health benefits of dates through moderate consumption.

Deglet Noor: is it just a sweet dessert?

Dates provide 12 percent of people’s daily needs of fiber. They are not merely a sweet treat; they provide the human body with an abundance of nutrients to stay fit and healthy. They also inhibit hunger outbursts and eating disorders because their dietary fiber satisfies the needs of the body and makes you feel full. Therefore, Deglet Noor dates can be an excellent alternative to all midday or midnight snacks. Isn’t this a great weight inhibitor?

The earlier reference to the similarity between Medjoul and Deglet Noor dates strikes as a dilemma when considering the health benefits of both varieties. The latter is relatively less sweet than the former. Unlike Medjoul, however, deglet noor has similar content of sugars.

Rich in vitamin A, this semi-dry fruit is extremely beneficial for the enhancement of vision. They lower the chance of contracting night blindness due to the lack of vitamin A. Besides, vitamin A is one of many inhibitors of lung and oral cavity cancers.

Dates are loaded with minerals such as potassium, magnesium, copper, and calcium. These are important factors for bone growth and muscle contraction. While copper plays an essential part in the development of red blood cells, potassium helps in regulating blood pressure.

Dates have numerous antioxidants such as ferulic acid, and anthocyanins. These components are essential for the health of the brain; they inhibit oxidative stress and inflammations. Results include the prevention of Alzheimer's, dementia, and premature aging. These might not be exclusive effects, yet they contribute tremendously to this end. These antioxidants contribute to the health of the heart as well.

Foods that are rich in fiber are known to prevent constipation. Dates are rich in insoluble fiber, which allows them to affect the flow of the blood. Besides, amino acids help facilitate digestion.

With unlimited health benefits, Deglet Noor dates cannot be a simple treat! They are a delicious dessert for sure, but they are much more than that. They are one of the pillars for good health.