Due to the fact that dates contain a lot of carbohydrates (sugary substances), it is considered a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms, especially yeasts, so we recommend keeping soft and fresh dates in the refrigerator. The cold interior of the refrigerator reduces the growth of microorganisms and the activity of enzymes. In general, dates can be stored in the refrigerator for about 8 months, but there is no problem in storing dry dates outside the refrigerator and in closed containers. Dried dates can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one year.
The date fruit goes through four stages of ripening and changes in its color, texture, taste, size and chemical composition occur in these stages. At first, dates are a green fruit, hard and full of water and tannin, and it has a bitter and sour taste. Over time, the moisture content of this fruit decreases and its sugar content increases until it finally becomes a fully ripe date.
Rotab is the stage before fully ripening dates, which has more moisture and less sugar than fully ripe dates. In the tamarind (ripe date) stage, the humidity reaches its minimum and the color of the date turns completely brown to black. At this stage, the date’s regenerating sugars (fructose and glucose) are high and sucrose is low, and it has a uniform and sometimes wrinkled texture.
How to store unripe dates (Khark)
Khark or Khark is basically the unripe date. Khark Some types of dates can be eaten and southerners are fond of it. Due to the presence of tannin, it has a sour and slightly sweet taste. The khark is cooked and dried and can be used for up to two years.
Keeping fresh dates (wet)
Soft dates spoil sooner due to juice and moisture, their taste and color become sour and change. For this reason, put soft and moist dates in a covered container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 3 to 8 degrees Celsius. It is better within a week. be eaten, so as not to change their properties. But there is no problem in the refrigerator for a month. If you have sugar, heat it and consume it.
Storage of dry dates
Dry and semi-dry dates have a long shelf life and can be stored for up to one year at kitchen temperature, away from sunlight and heat. To prevent humidity, put it in a glass container with a lid or a zipped plastic container that has been emptied of air.
How to store dates in the freezer
All types of dates, both fresh and semi-dry, can be stored in the freezer for up to one year to keep them fresh. To freeze, put the dates in a freezer bag, empty it of air and leave some free space for the dates to freeze. Then put it in the coldest part of the freezer. When using, take out the dates 3 hours before so that the ice melts slowly or put them in a container of warm water. In general, due to the abundance of dates at all times and everywhere, it is better to eat dates fresh.