Mazafati Dates
Zahedi Dates
Introduction to Zahedi Dates
Zahedi Dates (also known as Zahidi Dates) are one of Iran’s most widely cultivated semi-dry date varieties, highly valued for their long shelf life, affordable price, and strong export demand. With a unique nutty-sweet flavor, firm texture, and golden-yellow to light-brown color, Zahedi Dates are popular among wholesalers, processors, and global food-industry buyers.
Their exceptional durability and low moisture content make them ideal for long-distance shipping, large-volume exports, and industrial applications such as date sugar, date syrup, and energy products.
Origin & Production Regions in Iran
Iran is one of the world’s leading producers of Zahedi Dates, especially from regions with dry climates and fertile soil.
Major Production Areas
Bushehr Province
Fars Province (especially Dashtestan)
Khuzestan Province (Abadan, Shadegan, Behbahan)
Hormozgan Province
Kermanshah
These regions supply export-grade Zahedi Dates that meet international market requirements in size, cleanliness, and color.
Key Characteristics of Zahedi Dates
Appearance & Texture
Color: Yellowish-golden to light brown
Shape: Oval, firm, and slightly elongated
Texture: Semi-dry with firm flesh
Skin: Smooth, tough skin that prevents damage during transport
Flavor Profile
Zahedi Dates have a unique, mild sweetness with:
Light caramel notes
Slight nutty and earthy flavor
A dry, chewy bite
This makes them suitable for both direct consumption and industrial use.
Technical Specifications
Moisture Content
12% – 18% (semi-dry)
Low moisture makes Zahedi ideal for long-term storage.
Size Categories
Depending on the region and sorting method:
Super Grade: Large, uniform, bright golden color
Grade 1: Medium size, clean and uniform
Grade 2: Mixed sizes, suitable for industrial processing
Nutritional Values (per 100g)
Calories: 280–300
Carbohydrates: 73%
Fiber: 7–8g
Potassium: 650 mg
High in: Iron, magnesium, antioxidants
Zahedi is considered one of the healthiest date varieties due to its low sugar and high fiber content.
Packaging Options for Export
Retail Packaging
400g, 500g, and 1kg consumer boxes
Windowed cardboard boxes
Private-label branded packs
Bulk Packaging
5kg and 10kg cartons
20kg bulk bags or cartons
Food-grade liners for protection
Industrial Packaging
Large-capacity sacks
Cold storage-ready cartons (for long-term supply)
Shelf Life & Storage Recommendations
Zahedi Dates have one of the longest shelf lives among Iranian dates:
Room temperature (25°C): 12–18 months
Cool storage (5–10°C): Up to 24 months
Freezer (–18°C): Up to 36 months
They are highly resistant to spoilage due to their low moisture content.
HS Code
08041000 – Dates, fresh or dried
Export Markets for Zahedi Dates
High-Demand Markets
Zahedi Dates are exported to over 20 countries, including:
India – large-volume imports for food processing
Pakistan & Afghanistan – affordable wholesale category
UAE, Oman, Qatar – retail and industrial markets
Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan
Russia & Eastern Europe – growing demand
North America – health-food and sugar alternatives
Africa – bulk and lower-cost markets
Zahedi’s low price and high stability make it extremely competitive internationally.
Applications of Zahedi Dates
Direct Consumption
Everyday snacking
Breakfast mixes & cereals
Low-sugar diet plans
Food Industry Uses
Date sugar (one of the best varieties for natural sugar production)
Date powder for baking
Date syrup
Energy bars & health snacks
Industrial sweeteners
Zahedi’s low moisture and firm texture make it ideal for mechanical processing.
Buyer Requirements & Documents
Professional exporters provide international buyers with:
Certificate of Origin
Phytosanitary Certificate
Health Certificate
Sorting & grading reports
Custom packaging approvals
Optional documents:
Organic certification
SGS inspection
Advantages of Zahedi Dates for Exporters
1. Very Long Shelf Life
Ideal for long-distance shipping and non-refrigerated storage.
2. Affordable and High Volume
Perfect for bulk buyers and wholesalers.
3. Strong Demand in Processing Industries
Especially for date sugar and date syrup production.
4. Stable Supply & Easy Handling
Zahedi Dates resist pressure, heat, and moisture fluctuations.
5. Attractive for Price-Sensitive Markets
A strategic product for large-scale trade.
Conclusion
Zahedi Dates are one of Iran’s most reliable, affordable, and commercially valuable date varieties. Their firm texture, mild sweetness, long shelf life, and strong export demand make them an essential product for international distributors, wholesalers, food factories, and retail brands.