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Zahedi Dates
Kaluteh Dates
Zahedi Dates
Kaluteh Dates

Kabkab Dates

Thick and syrupy dates with a deep brown color, popular for both direct consumption and date syrup production.

Introduction to Kaluteh Dates

Kaluteh Dates (also spelled Kalooteh or Kalouteh) are one of Iran’s highly valued soft date varieties, known for their pleasant sweetness, soft flesh, attractive appearance, and excellent market demand. Originating mainly from Jiroft in Kerman Province, Kaluteh Dates closely resemble Mazafati Dates in taste and texture but have a longer shelf life and better resistance to transportation, making them a strong choice for international export. Their natural sweetness, semi-moist texture, and premium presentation make Kaluteh Dates ideal for retail packaging, supermarkets, health-food chains, date processors, and wholesale distributors around the world.

Origin & Production Regions

Kaluteh Dates thrive in areas with fertile soil, warm climates, and traditional palm-growing culture. The main production regions include:
  • Jiroft (Kerman Province) – the center of high-quality Kaluteh production
  • Anbarabad – known for sweeter and softer fruits
  • Kahnuj – produces larger, more uniform dates
  • South of Kerman Province – consistent export-grade production
These regions contribute slight variations in size, color, and moisture, giving exporters a wide range of commercial grades to offer.

Characteristics & Specifications

Physical Description

  • Shape: Oval and elongated
  • Color: Brown to dark brown, sometimes reddish-brown
  • Texture: Soft, semi-moist, glossy skin
  • Taste: Sweet, smooth, and less intense than Mazafati, suitable for general consumers

Size & Technical Specs

  • Average Length: 2.5 – 4 cm
  • Moisture Content: 14% – 20% (soft/semi-soft)
  • Shelf Life: 6 – 12 months (longer than Mazafati due to lower moisture)
  • Seeds: Single medium seed
  • Defect Rate: < 3–5% in premium grade

Nutritional Profile (per 100g)

  • Calories: 280–300 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 70% natural sugars
  • Fiber: 6–8%
  • Potassium: 650 mg
  • Rich in: B-vitamins, iron, magnesium
  • Zero added sugar & preservatives
Kaluteh Dates are popular in health-focused markets due to their natural energy and soft texture.

Grades & Sorting Categories

Exporters typically sort Kaluteh Dates into the following commercial categories:

1. Premium Grade (Super Select)

  • Uniform size
  • Clean, shiny skin
  • Minimal defects
  • Ideal for luxury packaging and international retail chains

2. Grade A (Select)

  • High quality with slight size variations
  • Excellent for wholesale buyers

3. Grade B Industrial

  • Ideal for date paste, bars, syrups, desserts, confectionery, and baking products

Packaging Options for Export

Most international buyers require the following packaging formats:

Retail-Ready Packaging

  • 400g – 500g boxes
  • 1kg branded boxes
  • Transparent or windowed boxes
  • Private Label branding available

Bulk Packaging

  • 5kg – 10kg cartons
  • 10kg master cases
  • Food-grade liners to maintain softness

Special Export Packaging

  • Vacuum packaging for hot climates
  • MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging)
  • Cold-chain packaging for high-moisture batches

Storage & Shelf Life

Kaluteh Dates should be stored at:
  • 0°C – 5°C for long-term storage
  • 5°C – 10°C for short-term retail storage
  • Humidity below 65%
  • Protected from direct sunlight
Proper storage preserves color, softness, and natural sweetness.

HS Code for Export

  • HS Code: 08041000 – Dates, fresh or dried
This code is used in global customs for exporting Kaluteh Dates.

Market Demand & Export Destinations

Kaluteh Dates are increasingly popular due to their balanced flavor, attractive appearance, and competitive pricing. Major import markets include:
  • India – both retail and industrial applications
  • UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait – strong demand for soft dates
  • Russia & Eastern Europe – growing retail market
  • Turkey & Central Asia – bulk and packaged formats
  • Europe – health-food and organic markets
  • North America – specialty Middle Eastern stores
Because Kaluteh Dates remain stable during shipping, they are favored by distributors who need long-distance supply.

Advantages of Kaluteh Dates for Exporters

1. Longer Shelf Life than Mazafati

Their lower moisture content makes them easier to store and ship without heavy cold-chain requirements.

2. Affordable Yet Premium

They offer a luxury product look at a competitive price, ideal for volume sales.

3. Highly Suitable for Retail Packaging

Kaluteh Dates have great visual appeal and consistent size, making them attractive for supermarkets.

4. Excellent for Both Consumption & Industry

Can be eaten fresh or used in:
  • Date paste
  • Desserts
  • Cakes
  • Energy bars
  • Natural sweeteners

5. Strong International Demand

Growing demand in health-conscious markets and Middle Eastern regions.

Buyer Requirements & Export Documentation

Professional international buyers typically require:
  • Phytosanitary Certificate
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Quality Grading/Sizing Report
  • Moisture and defect rate test
  • Pre-loading inspection (optional)
  • Samples for branding approval
Meeting these standards increases trust and ensures repeat orders.

Conclusion

Kaluteh Dates are a rising star among Iranian date varieties thanks to their soft texture, excellent taste, long shelf life, and strong export potential. They offer a perfect balance between the premium quality of Mazafati Dates and the durability of semi-dry date varieties. For wholesalers, retailers, and food manufacturers, Kaluteh Dates provide an attractive, profitable, and reliable product.