Dates are increasingly being chosen as a snack option by Americans, helping drive a surge in sales for one of the world’s oldest cultivated fruits as consumers seek alternatives to ultra-processed foods.

Nutritional Benefits

Sales of dates in the United States rose 33% in 2025, according to Joolies California Superfruit, a California-based organic date company. Industry forecasts suggest demand could continue to climb, with Fortune Business Insights projecting the U.S. date market will reach $1.6 billion by 2034.

Nutrition experts say dates appeal to consumers seeking less-processed foods that still satisfy sweet cravings. Registered dietitian Lisa Moskovitz, founder of the NY Nutrition Group and author of “The Core 3 Healthy Eating Plan,” notes that dates provide fiber, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients like magnesium and potassium.

Global Demand

Globally, the date market is expected to grow from $34.5 billion in 2026 to $55.58 billion by 2034, representing a compound annual growth rate of 6.1%, according to Fortune Business Insights. The Middle East and Africa continue to account for the vast majority of global demand, representing more than 85% of the market share in 2025.

Social media has played a major role in the fruit’s growing popularity. Videos featuring first-time taste tests and recipes using dates as a substitute for refined sugar have attracted millions of views.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.