The nutritional value of Dates is well known. It is a complete food with full energy liked by the people of all ages, can be eaten in many ways and a sacred food for the Muslims especially in the month of Ramadan (Fasting).

Each year thousands of tons of fresh pitted/un-pitted Dates are exported from Pakistan to many countries of the world.

The main varieties of Pakistan Dates which are grown in large quantities for export, are briefly described below.

FASIL

Fasil Dates are grown in Sukkur & Khairpur Districts and adjoining areas of Sing Province. These Dates are of Industrial Grade because they contain lesser amount of meat, thinner in size and have dry skin. The havesting period of these Dates is from July 8 to July 31. The shelf life of these Dates is short and therefore must be used soon and shipped immediately after havesting.

SUKKUR ASIL

Sukkur Asil Dates are of prime quality grown in Sindh Province and harvested from August 1 to August 31. These Dates are of reddish color, larger in size and with plenty of meat.

BEGUM JANGI (BJ)

Begum Jangi (BJ) Dates resemble the Sukkur Asil Dates and grown in Turbat area of Balochistan Province. These are a little bit smaller in size than Sukkur Asil Dates having a lower moisture than Sukkur Asil. It is the harvested from August 15 to September 14.

KHAHRBA

Khahrba Dates are grown in Panjgoor & Mushkay areas of Balochistan Province. These dates are of smaller size but sweeter and have a lower moisture level & harvested from September 22 to October 31.

BALOCHISTAN RABBI (BR)

Balochistan Rabbi (BR) Dates are grown in Mashkail area of Balochistan from September 01 to September 30.