dates (खजुर)
About dates (खजुर)
Dates, although not a traditional crop of Nepal, have been gaining popularity in recent years as a healthy and convenient food option, especially during festivals and religious occasions. They are commonly imported and sold in urban areas, often found in grocery stores, and are used in sweets and desserts, particularly during celebrations like Dashain and Tihar. With growing health consciousness among the Nepali population, dates are increasingly being recognized for their nutritional benefits. However, their cultivation is not prevalent in Nepal due to its geographical and climatic conditions, as dates prefer warmer, arid environments. In Nepal, dried dates are more common than fresh dates due to imports.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in dates
Seasonality
As dates are not grown locally in Nepal, their seasonality is not determined by local harvests. Dates are imported year-round, with availability dependent on import schedules. They are, however, more in demand and widely available during major festivals like Dashain and Tihar as they are used in various sweets and religious offerings. The supply chain primarily relies on imports from other countries, making them a year-round commodity in urban areas.
History
The history of dates in Nepal is primarily tied to trade and import. Unlike regions in the Middle East and North Africa where date palms have been cultivated for millennia, Nepal does not have a history of traditional date farming. Dates are a relatively recent addition to the Nepali diet, likely introduced through trade routes with neighboring countries or from the Middle East. They became more accessible as trade networks expanded and are now readily available in urban centers. While dates may not have deep historical roots in Nepali culture, they have gradually integrated into the local diet, particularly during festivals and as a nutritious snack. They are now considered a familiar and somewhat exotic treat within the food landscape.