Why dates take centre stage during Ramadan

When you visit the shopping malls and well-stocked supermarkets in Accra, there is one fruit that has been given all the prominence—the date palm fruit.

At the Palace Hypermarket, Max Mart, Fairway, Melcom Mall and Sneda, among others, there are various types of both dried and wet dates on display due to Ramadan.

Some have been discounted to as low as GH¢29.99 for 250 grammes of packed dates, while some are as high as GH¢600, depending on the weight and package.

A visit to some of the supermarkets by the Daily Graphic shows how significant the date fruit is during Ramadan.

It is no wonder you see Muslims buying them to share as Ramadan presents to their fellow Muslims for breakfast.

Aside from the supermarkets, at the Nima Market in Accra, several traders are displaying various types of dates for sale as well.

Types of date fruits

Touching on the various types of dates, a nutritionist and an importer of dates, Kadijah Umar, said dates come in various types, each with its unique texture and flavour.

According to her, some of the most popular varieties include Medjool dates, which are often referred to as the "King of dates."

They are large, soft and naturally sweet.

They are rich in fibre and antioxidants, making them a nutritious choice for breaking the fast.

Another type is Deglet Noor dates.

They are semi-dry dates that are slightly firmer and have a delicate, nutty flavour.

They are commonly used in cooking and as an ingredient in energy bars.

She said a particular date, which is believed to have healing properties and is often mentioned in Islamic traditions, is the Ajwa date.

“Ajwa is known for its unique taste and exceptional health benefits. 

These dates are grown in the holy city of Medina in Saudi Arabia and are considered to be the most superior among all varieties of dates.”

Kadijah mentioned Barhi and Sukkari dates as other types that people often request.

“Barhi dates are unique because they can be eaten fresh when they are still yellow and crunchy or when they have ripened into a soft, caramel-like texture, while Sukkari dates are the Queen of Dates that are known for their golden, soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

They are often consumed as a natural alternative to sugar.”

For those who love smoothies, she said the best are Khudri dates, which have a chewy texture and a mildly sweet flavour, making them ideal for snacking or blending into various types of smoothies.

Significance of dates during Ramadan

According to her, the consumption of dates during Ramadan is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition.

It is recorded that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to break his fast with dates and water.

This practice continues to this day among Muslims worldwide.

Explaining the nutritional benefits, she told the Daily Graphic that dates are packed with essential nutrients, including fibre, potassium, magnesium and natural sugars, which help to replenish energy levels quickly after a day of fasting.

“Their natural sugars and fibre make them easy to digest, helping to prevent digestive discomfort after long hours of fasting.

Since dates contain natural electrolytes, they help maintain hydration levels when consumed with water, reducing the risk of dehydration.”

Adding that eating dates is seen as a way to follow the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet, she noted, “Sharing dates with family, friends and the less fortunate is a common practice during Ramadan, reinforcing the values of generosity and unity in the Muslim community.”