Dates are one of the most popular and delicious fruits brimming with protein, Vitamins and mineral. They are produced and consumed as major diet in most countries of world. The nutritious value of dates can’t be ignored since it carries many benefits for health and fitness. It is a complete food, with maximum energy, enjoyed by the people of all ages, consumable in numerous ways and considered holy fruit in Muslims countries. They are known as natural remedy for a many health-related problems and useful for weight gain. Largest date producers in the world are situated in the southern area of the Mediterranean Sea specially countries located in hot arid region of Middle East and North Africa are known for high value confectionery. World’s date production is in the hands of few countries of this region where it is the most important subsistence crop.
Top 10 Largest Date Producers in the World
| Rank | Country | Production 2012 (Tonnes) |
% age of World Production
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Egypt | 1,470,000 | 19% |
| 2. | Iran |
1,066,000
|
14% |
| 3. | Saudi Arabia |
1,050,000
|
14% |
| 4. | Algeria |
789,357
|
10% |
| 5. | Iraq |
650,000
|
8% |
| 6. | Pakistan |
600,000
|
8% |
| 7. | Sudan (former) |
433,500
|
6% |
| 8. | Oman |
270,000
|
4% |
| 9. | U.A.E |
250,000
|
3% |
| 10. | Tunisia |
190,000
|
2% |
Egypt is the largest date producing country in the world. In 2012, it produced 1.47 million tonnes that makes 19% of world’s dates production.
Source:food and agriculture organization
