Dates

The date palm most likely originates from the area between the Euphrates and the Nile. Dates were already known long before Christ and were mentioned in the Bible. They were healthy food that kept well. The date palm grows from Morocco to India, from west to east. The palm trees thrive in the burning heat provided they get enough moisture. The U.S.A. has also cast its covetous eyes on the date, a precious product, and produces significant quantities, mainly in California, but also in Arizona. Countries playing roles in the date trade are: U.S.A., Argentina, Tunisia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Libya, Morocco, the Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Mexico and Spain are also production countries, but do not produce enough for international roles. Egypt , Saudi Arabia, the Emirates and Iran are by far the largest producers. They provide over 60 percent of the world production, which is more than 6,500,000 tons.