faq
What are pressed dates? And why are they so sticky?
Pressed dates are not a variety of dates, like Medjool, Deglout Noor, or Sukari. Instead, the term refers to what happens to the dates after harvest. The dates are left in the desert sun for several weeks post-harvest, being left to ripen even further until they produce their own natural, raw nectar/syrup. They are then carefully pressed and sealed in their own nectar, hence the stickiness, without the addition of any ingredients. The only ingredient in pressed dates is dates.
Can I buy any variety of date as ‘Pressed Dates’?
Unfortunately, not. While you theoretically could press any date, it doesn’t mean that you should. Differing consistencies and moisture contents are the main determining factors for choosing which varieties of dates to use for pressing. Varieties like Kholas & Sukari have ideal characteristics that allow them to be prepared as pressed dates, while on the other hand, ‘Medjool’ or ‘Deglout Noor’ do not for example.
Can you tell me more about the process behind pressed dates?
Our trusted farmers spend the whole year working hand-in-hand with nature, using natural and sustainable farming practices in order to prepare the dates for harvest in late July to early August. Once harvest time comes around, our farmers carefully select the dates by hand and prepare them to rest in the desert sun to begin their post-ripening process. The dates are spread out on a flat surface, often on palm fronds and gradually ripen further. The dates are then collected, slightly pressed together, and then sealed in order to maintain their taste, freshness, moisture content, and most deliciously, the syrup itself. Naturally produced raw date syrup is a known delicacy in the Middle East called, "dibs/debs", commonly used in similar ways to honey.
Are the dates heated up to make pressed dates?
Surprisingly, not. High levels of heat would destroy important nutrients that are contained in a date, so it is important to us that the dates can remain in their natural raw state. Due to the low moisture content of dates compared to other fruits, they are less prone to mold or bacterial growth, allowing them to be safely stored for extended periods when properly sealed.
What are the white sugar-like crystals on my dates?
Sugar-like crystals on your dates is an indicator that your dates have crystallized. This is nothing to be concerned about, it is a natural process that occurs with dates, especially pressed dates. Considering the high sugar content of dates, they have a tendency to crystallize just like honey. Sukari dates are especially prone to crystallization and many actually prefer their dates this way.
How and when are the dates harvested?
The date harvest season typically begins in late July to early August and often continues into October. The dates are carefully hand-picked to ensure a consistent premium quality and optimal ripeness.
Do dates ferment?
Yes, dates can naturally ferment, especially if stored in a very warm, humid environment for an extended period. While naturally fermented dates aren’t typically meant for direct consumption, dates can also be used intentionally to create fermented foods and drinks, like kombucha, which can support gut health.
What are dates used for?
Dates are versatile! They can be eaten on their own, added to desserts, blended into smoothies, or used in savory dishes. Dates also have a rich history and cultural significance spanning centuries. Learn more in our blog “What are dates used for?”.
What is the history behind date palms?
Dates have been cultivated for thousands of years and hold cultural and historical significance in many regions. Explore their rich history in our blog “The History Behind Date Palms”.
Are dates gluten-free?
Yes! Dates are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe snack for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Are dates vegan?
Absolutely. Dates are a plant-based fruit and contain no animal products, making them fully vegan.
Are dates a natural source of sugar?
Yes. Dates contain naturally occurring sugars, which provide energy and sweetness. For a deeper dive into mindful consumption, see our blog: "Beyond Sugar: Why Dates are the Ultimate Mindful Snack".
Can I eat dates during pregnancy?
Yes, dates are a nutritious snack during pregnancy, providing natural energy, fiber, and minerals. Read our blog: "Dates during Pregnancy".
Are dates suitable for people with diabetes?
Dates contain natural sugar, so portion control is key. Some studies suggest that dates may have a gentler effect on blood sugar compared to refined sweets. Learn more in our blog “How do dates affect blood sugar? Mindful Eating”.
Do dates help with relaxation or sleep?
Dates are a comforting, natural snack. They contain nutrients that may support relaxation and healthy sleep rhythms. Discover more about this in our blog “Dates & Rest: A Perfect Pairing”.
Where are your dates from?
Our dates are sourced directly from trusted partner farms, primarily in Saudi Arabia. Some of our date-based products, such as date syrup, are sourced from other regions known for date cultivation.
We work closely with farms we know personally and maintain direct relationships with the farmers. One of our co-founders, Maan, is originally from Saudi Arabia and regularly visits our partner farms to ensure that our standards for quality, growing practices, and handling are met.
Each date product we offer comes from one specific farm rather than being mixed from multiple origins. This allows for better traceability, consistency, and a clearer understanding of how the dates are grown and handled.
What does single-sourced mean?
Single-sourced means that each of our products has one clear origin.
When you buy a pack of our pressed dates, all the dates inside come from the same farm. We never mix dates from different farms within one product.
While we work with several partner farms overall, each individual product is sourced from one farm only. This approach allows us to maintain traceability, quality control, and consistency from harvest to packaging.
Are your dates organic?
We don’t have an official organic certification yet, but all our dates are grown naturally, without any chemicals or pesticides. We prioritize careful, sustainable farming practices to ensure safe, high-quality products, so you can enjoy your dates with confidence.
How do you ensure environmental sustainability?
We prioritize farms that use sustainable growing methods to protect the land for future generations. Date palms are interplanted with other plants to encourage biodiversity, support soil health, and attract pollinators and beneficial insects. The date farmers use drip irrigation to minimize water waste and place protective bags on fruit instead of using chemical pesticides, relying on natural methods to maintain healthy, thriving crops.
Sustainability isn’t only the farms’ responsibility, it’s ours too. We focus on slower transport methods when possible, and use recyclable or reused packaging, and prioritize quality and ethics over quantity to reduce overproduction and waste. Our batches are small and carefully sized to meet demand. We encourage customers to enjoy dates mindfully and store them properly to extend shelf life, helping to reduce unnecessary food waste. We regularly review our practices to find ways to minimize our footprint at every step. Nothing goes to waste, products that reach their expiration date are still always used in our private kitchen or shared with friends and family.
Are dates just a trendy snack?
Dates may be gaining popularity today, but they are far from a passing trend. They have been part of human culture for thousands of years, woven into traditions and daily life across generations. Maan, one of dattelmond’s co-founders, has roots in northern Saudi Arabia, where his family has been cultivating date palms for hundreds of years. Dates have a rich history and lasting significance that goes well beyond their current popularity.
How should I store my pressed dates before opening?
For the longest shelf life, our dates are best stored somewhere dry, cool, and dark. Pressed dates are generally quite durable when sealed, but proper storage ensures they stay fresh longer.
For storage questions about our other products, please refer to the specific product page for more information, or reach out to us directly.
How should I store my pressed dates after opening?
We recommend transferring the dates into an air-tight glass container after opening and storing either at room temperature or in the fridge.
Storing them in the fridge will make them a bit firmer and lightly crystallized due to the natural sugars of the date, while storing them at room temperature keeps them soft and sticky. You can store your dates differently according to your own individual, unique preferences.
How long do pressed dates last after opening?
Pressed dates should last at least 3 months after opening when stored in an airtight container. Check for any off smells or unusual changes before eating. The ideal storage temperature after opening is 15–20°C.
Why are pressed dates packaged in plastic?
Pressed dates are packaged in plastic because it is the only way to ensure that the dates maintain their quality over-time. Different from typical loose or dried dates, pressed dates are ripened in the sun further after harvest, before being lightly pressed and packaged. The light pressing causes a natural process in which the nectar, or syrup, of the dates become released, coating the dates in their own naturally produced syrup. The air-tight, vacuum packaging ensures that the dates reach the consumer exactly as intended. We try to keep our plastic use and waste to an absolute minimum wherever possible.
Can I freeze dates?
We do not recommend freezing pressed dates, as it can make them tough and chewy, and it’s usually unnecessary due to their packaging. Dried dates, on the other hand, can be safely frozen if you’d like to extend their shelf life.
How long does delivery take?
All orders are sent out with Swiss Post and are sent out within 1-2 business days. At checkout, you have the option to select A-Post (next-day delivery) or B-Post (2 day delivery). For more details, see our Shipping Policy page.
If you are experiencing any issues or delays with your order, please don't hesitate to send us an email at team@dattelmond.ch
Do you deliver outside of Switzerland?
No, we only deliver to Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Which delivery couriers do you use? How can I track my order?
We ship all orders with Swiss Post. You’ll receive a tracking number via email as soon as your order is dispatched, so you can follow it every step of the way. For local deliveries within CH-8580, we handle them personally and do not provide tracking, but you can always contact us for updates.
How are your orders packed?
We pack orders with sustainability in mind, using almost exclusively recycled or secondhand materials. About 95% of our orders are packed with paper. Any bubble wrap or fillers found are always reused rather than newly purchased. Packaging might not look perfect, but it keeps your order safe while reducing waste.
For more details, see our Shipping Policy page.
Where can I buy your dates in-person?
Refer to our “Where to find us” Page for our full list of partners. If you don’t see a location near you, tell your local shops that you’d love to see us there, direct suggestions to shop owners help us incredibly!
What is a "local delivery"?
Local deliveries within CH-8580 are handled personally by us, free of charge and with no minimum order requirement. We're delighted to provide our neighbors with quality products while eliminating the need for extra packaging.
Do you offer pick-up?
No, we do not offer pick-up. Alternatively, we offer free local delivery with no minimum order value in the CH-8580 region.
What happens if my order arrives damaged?
Please contact us if your order arrives damaged. Although very rare, we handle these situations on a case-by-case basis.
E-Mail: team@dattelmond.ch
Can I change my delivery address?
Yes, but without guarantee. We process all of our orders manually, so please contact us as soon as you realize that the input delivery address is incorrect and we’ll try to make sure it gets sent to the correct address.
E-Mail: team@dattelmond.ch
I’m a retailer, how can I work with dattelmond?
We’re always happy to hear from shops, cafés, and businesses interested in working with us.
B2B and wholesale orders are currently handled manually. Please reach out to us at team@dattelmond.ch, and we’ll be glad to share more details.
Do you offer wholesale pricing?
Yes. Wholesale pricing is available for approved retail partners. Our wholesale pricing is fixed rather than tiered, meaning all wholesale customers receive the same rate regardless of order size.
Please contact us at team@dattelmond.ch with a short introduction to your business, and we’ll be happy to share more details.
Do you offer samples for retailers?
Yes, we’re very proud of our products and are happy to provide samples to interested retail partners.
Please contact us at team@dattelmond.ch with a short introduction to your business and let us know which products you’d like to sample. We’ll provide more details as soon as possible.
How is shipping handled for wholesale?
Wholesale orders are shipped via Swiss Post, with shipping charged by weight according to their standard rates.
We’re also happy to deliver free of charge to local establishments. Generally, we consider Thurgau, as well as some areas of St. Gallen and Schaffhausen, to be local, though this is determined on a case-by-case basis.
What are pressed dates? And why are they so sticky?
Pressed dates are not a variety of dates, like Medjool, Deglout Noor, or Sukari. Instead, the term refers to what happens to the dates after harvest. The dates are left in the desert sun for several weeks post-harvest, being left to ripen even further until they produce their own natural, raw nectar/syrup. They are then carefully pressed and sealed in their own nectar, hence the stickiness, without the addition of any ingredients. The only ingredient in pressed dates is dates.
Can I buy any variety of date as ‘Pressed Dates’?
Unfortunately, not. While you theoretically could press any date, it doesn’t mean that you should. Differing consistencies and moisture contents are the main determining factors for choosing which varieties of dates to use for pressing. Varieties like Kholas & Sukari have ideal characteristics that allow them to be prepared as pressed dates, while on the other hand, ‘Medjool’ or ‘Deglout Noor’ do not for example.
Can you tell me more about the process behind pressed dates?
Our trusted farmers spend the whole year working hand-in-hand with nature, using natural and sustainable farming practices in order to prepare the dates for harvest in late July to early August. Once harvest time comes around, our farmers carefully select the dates by hand and prepare them to rest in the desert sun to begin their post-ripening process. The dates are spread out on a flat surface, often on palm fronds and gradually ripen further. The dates are then collected, slightly pressed together, and then sealed in order to maintain their taste, freshness, moisture content, and most deliciously, the syrup itself. Naturally produced raw date syrup is a known delicacy in the Middle East called, "dibs/debs", commonly used in similar ways to honey.
Are the dates heated up to make pressed dates?
Surprisingly, not. High levels of heat would destroy important nutrients that are contained in a date, so it is important to us that the dates can remain in their natural raw state. Due to the low moisture content of dates compared to other fruits, they are less prone to mold or bacterial growth, allowing them to be safely stored for extended periods when properly sealed.
What are the white sugar-like crystals on my dates?
Sugar-like crystals on your dates is an indicator that your dates have crystallized. This is nothing to be concerned about, it is a natural process that occurs with dates, especially pressed dates. Considering the high sugar content of dates, they have a tendency to crystallize just like honey. Sukari dates are especially prone to crystallization and many actually prefer their dates this way.
How and when are the dates harvested?
The date harvest season typically begins in late July to early August and often continues into October. The dates are carefully hand-picked to ensure a consistent premium quality and optimal ripeness.
Do dates ferment?
Yes, dates can naturally ferment, especially if stored in a very warm, humid environment for an extended period. While naturally fermented dates aren’t typically meant for direct consumption, dates can also be used intentionally to create fermented foods and drinks, like kombucha, which can support gut health.
What are dates used for?
Dates are versatile! They can be eaten on their own, added to desserts, blended into smoothies, or used in savory dishes. Dates also have a rich history and cultural significance spanning centuries. Learn more in our blog “What are dates used for?”.
What is the history behind date palms?
Dates have been cultivated for thousands of years and hold cultural and historical significance in many regions. Explore their rich history in our blog “The History Behind Date Palms”.
Are dates gluten-free?
Yes! Dates are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe snack for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Are dates vegan?
Absolutely. Dates are a plant-based fruit and contain no animal products, making them fully vegan.
Are dates a natural source of sugar?
Yes. Dates contain naturally occurring sugars, which provide energy and sweetness. For a deeper dive into mindful consumption, see our blog: "Beyond Sugar: Why Dates are the Ultimate Mindful Snack".
Can I eat dates during pregnancy?
Yes, dates are a nutritious snack during pregnancy, providing natural energy, fiber, and minerals. Read our blog: "Dates during Pregnancy".
Are dates suitable for people with diabetes?
Dates contain natural sugar, so portion control is key. Some studies suggest that dates may have a gentler effect on blood sugar compared to refined sweets. Learn more in our blog “How do dates affect blood sugar? Mindful Eating”.
Do dates help with relaxation or sleep?
Dates are a comforting, natural snack. They contain nutrients that may support relaxation and healthy sleep rhythms. Discover more about this in our blog “Dates & Rest: A Perfect Pairing”.
Where are your dates from?
Our dates are sourced directly from trusted partner farms, primarily in Saudi Arabia. Some of our date-based products, such as date syrup, are sourced from other regions known for date cultivation.
We work closely with farms we know personally and maintain direct relationships with the farmers. One of our co-founders, Maan, is originally from Saudi Arabia and regularly visits our partner farms to ensure that our standards for quality, growing practices, and handling are met.
Each date product we offer comes from one specific farm rather than being mixed from multiple origins. This allows for better traceability, consistency, and a clearer understanding of how the dates are grown and handled.
What does single-sourced mean?
Single-sourced means that each of our products has one clear origin.
When you buy a pack of our pressed dates, all the dates inside come from the same farm. We never mix dates from different farms within one product.
While we work with several partner farms overall, each individual product is sourced from one farm only. This approach allows us to maintain traceability, quality control, and consistency from harvest to packaging.
Are your dates organic?
We don’t have an official organic certification yet, but all our dates are grown naturally, without any chemicals or pesticides. We prioritize careful, sustainable farming practices to ensure safe, high-quality products, so you can enjoy your dates with confidence.
How do you ensure environmental sustainability?
We prioritize farms that use sustainable growing methods to protect the land for future generations. Date palms are interplanted with other plants to encourage biodiversity, support soil health, and attract pollinators and beneficial insects. The date farmers use drip irrigation to minimize water waste and place protective bags on fruit instead of using chemical pesticides, relying on natural methods to maintain healthy, thriving crops.
Sustainability isn’t only the farms’ responsibility, it’s ours too. We focus on slower transport methods when possible, and use recyclable or reused packaging, and prioritize quality and ethics over quantity to reduce overproduction and waste. Our batches are small and carefully sized to meet demand. We encourage customers to enjoy dates mindfully and store them properly to extend shelf life, helping to reduce unnecessary food waste. We regularly review our practices to find ways to minimize our footprint at every step. Nothing goes to waste, products that reach their expiration date are still always used in our private kitchen or shared with friends and family.
Are dates just a trendy snack?
Dates may be gaining popularity today, but they are far from a passing trend. They have been part of human culture for thousands of years, woven into traditions and daily life across generations. Maan, one of dattelmond’s co-founders, has roots in northern Saudi Arabia, where his family has been cultivating date palms for hundreds of years. Dates have a rich history and lasting significance that goes well beyond their current popularity.
How should I store my pressed dates before opening?
For the longest shelf life, our dates are best stored somewhere dry, cool, and dark. Pressed dates are generally quite durable when sealed, but proper storage ensures they stay fresh longer.
For storage questions about our other products, please refer to the specific product page for more information, or reach out to us directly.
How should I store my pressed dates after opening?
We recommend transferring the dates into an air-tight glass container after opening and storing either at room temperature or in the fridge.
Storing them in the fridge will make them a bit firmer and lightly crystallized due to the natural sugars of the date, while storing them at room temperature keeps them soft and sticky. You can store your dates differently according to your own individual, unique preferences.
How long do pressed dates last after opening?
Pressed dates should last at least 3 months after opening when stored in an airtight container. Check for any off smells or unusual changes before eating. The ideal storage temperature after opening is 15–20°C.
Why are pressed dates packaged in plastic?
Pressed dates are packaged in plastic because it is the only way to ensure that the dates maintain their quality over-time. Different from typical loose or dried dates, pressed dates are ripened in the sun further after harvest, before being lightly pressed and packaged. The light pressing causes a natural process in which the nectar, or syrup, of the dates become released, coating the dates in their own naturally produced syrup. The air-tight, vacuum packaging ensures that the dates reach the consumer exactly as intended. We try to keep our plastic use and waste to an absolute minimum wherever possible.
Can I freeze dates?
We do not recommend freezing pressed dates, as it can make them tough and chewy, and it’s usually unnecessary due to their packaging. Dried dates, on the other hand, can be safely frozen if you’d like to extend their shelf life.
How long does delivery take?
All orders are sent out with Swiss Post and are sent out within 1-2 business days. At checkout, you have the option to select A-Post (next-day delivery) or B-Post (2 day delivery). For more details, see our Shipping Policy page.
If you are experiencing any issues or delays with your order, please don't hesitate to send us an email at team@dattelmond.ch
Do you deliver outside of Switzerland?
No, we only deliver to Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Which delivery couriers do you use? How can I track my order?
We ship all orders with Swiss Post. You’ll receive a tracking number via email as soon as your order is dispatched, so you can follow it every step of the way. For local deliveries within CH-8580, we handle them personally and do not provide tracking, but you can always contact us for updates.
How are your orders packed?
We pack orders with sustainability in mind, using almost exclusively recycled or secondhand materials. About 95% of our orders are packed with paper. Any bubble wrap or fillers found are always reused rather than newly purchased. Packaging might not look perfect, but it keeps your order safe while reducing waste.
For more details, see our Shipping Policy page.
Where can I buy your dates in-person?
Refer to our “Where to find us” Page for our full list of partners. If you don’t see a location near you, tell your local shops that you’d love to see us there, direct suggestions to shop owners help us incredibly!
What is a "local delivery"?
Local deliveries within CH-8580 are handled personally by us, free of charge and with no minimum order requirement. We're delighted to provide our neighbors with quality products while eliminating the need for extra packaging.
Do you offer pick-up?
No, we do not offer pick-up. Alternatively, we offer free local delivery with no minimum order value in the CH-8580 region.
What happens if my order arrives damaged?
Please contact us if your order arrives damaged. Although very rare, we handle these situations on a case-by-case basis.
E-Mail: team@dattelmond.ch
Can I change my delivery address?
Yes, but without guarantee. We process all of our orders manually, so please contact us as soon as you realize that the input delivery address is incorrect and we’ll try to make sure it gets sent to the correct address.
E-Mail: team@dattelmond.ch
I’m a retailer, how can I work with dattelmond?
We’re always happy to hear from shops, cafés, and businesses interested in working with us.
B2B and wholesale orders are currently handled manually. Please reach out to us at team@dattelmond.ch, and we’ll be glad to share more details.
Do you offer wholesale pricing?
Yes. Wholesale pricing is available for approved retail partners. Our wholesale pricing is fixed rather than tiered, meaning all wholesale customers receive the same rate regardless of order size.
Please contact us at team@dattelmond.ch with a short introduction to your business, and we’ll be happy to share more details.
Do you offer samples for retailers?
Yes, we’re very proud of our products and are happy to provide samples to interested retail partners.
Please contact us at team@dattelmond.ch with a short introduction to your business and let us know which products you’d like to sample. We’ll provide more details as soon as possible.
How is shipping handled for wholesale?
Wholesale orders are shipped via Swiss Post, with shipping charged by weight according to their standard rates.
We’re also happy to deliver free of charge to local establishments. Generally, we consider Thurgau, as well as some areas of St. Gallen and Schaffhausen, to be local, though this is determined on a case-by-case basis.
