Can Dates Go Bad? (& 5 Tips To Protect Them)

Yes, dates can go bad. Just like any other fruit, dates can go bad if they’re not stored properly. However, there are a few things you can do to extend their shelf life. If you wish to save them for later, make sure to keep them refrigerated and wash them before eating.

The Reasons for Dates Being Spoiled

There are several reasons why your dates might start to spoil. Some of them are given below.

Improperly Stored

One of the most common reasons is simply because they were not stored properly. Dates are dried fruit, which means they need to be stored in a cool, dry place. If they’re exposed to too much moisture or heat, they’ll start to spoil.

Way of Packaging

Another reason dates might spoil is because of the way they were packaged.

If the dates were packaged in a plastic bag, for example, they might not have been able to breathe properly and start to spoil as a result.

If they’re packaged properly, they should last for several months. However, if you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard them.

Not Sealed Properly

if the dates were not sealed properly, they might start to spoil. Once dates are opened, it’s important to seal them tightly so that they don’t lose their moisture.

If there is oxygen exposure, the fruit will start to oxidize and turn brown. This process can make the fruit taste off and cause it to spoil quicker.

Exposed to Too Much Moisture or Heat

If the dates were exposed to too much moisture or heat, they will start to spoil. Dates are dried fruit, so they need to be stored in a cool, dry place. If they are stored in a humid environment, they will start to grow mold and bacteria.

You should also avoid storing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fruit to overheat and start to spoil.

LEARN MORE: Can Cherries Be Frozen?

5 Tips For Preventing Dates From Going Bad

Now that you know how to tell if your dates have gone bad, here are a few tips to prevent them from spoiling in the first place.

Storing in a Cool and Dry Place and Why

The first tip is to store them in a cool and dry place. As we mentioned before, dates are dried fruit and need to be stored in a cool, dry place. 

On the other hand, dates have very little water in them, and extreme temperatures dry them up even more.

If you live in a hot environment, store them in the coolest part of the store, preferably on shelves near the floor. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Refrigerate Them

Another tip is to refrigerate your dates. This will help to keep them fresh for a longer period of time. Just make sure to seal them in an airtight container so that they don’t dry out.

Wrap the dates in clear foil before sealing the container in which they will be stored in. the fridge. This will help to keep them from drying out and prevent them from absorbing flavors from other foods.

Using Freezer

If you choose to freeze your dates freezer burns can be a hazard associated with freezing dates. Wrap dates with aluminum foil before putting them in a freezer container if you want to keep them for a long time.

Freezing dates is a good way to extend their shelf life, but you should only do this if you plan on using them within a few months.

Washing Before Using

It’s always a good idea to wash your dates before you eat them. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that might be on the surface of the fruit.

Putting them in a sieve dish and rinsing them under a stream of cold, clean water is the finest option. Either way, make sure to dry them thoroughly before eating.

Use Them Within a Few Weeks

Once you’ve opened a package of dates, it’s best to use them within a few weeks. This is because they can start to spoil more quickly once they’re exposed to air.

If you don’t think you’ll be able to use them within this time frame, it’s best to freeze them.

LEARN MORE: Can Chili Be Frozen?

Shelf Life of Dates

Dates are one of the oldest types of fruit, having been around for thousands of years. The fruit was first cultivated in the Middle East and has been a staple in the region ever since.

There are various types of dates all over the world and all of them are rich in fructose, vitamins, and minerals. These dates last for several months if stored properly.

The type of dates will determine the shelf-life. All dates can be classified into one of three categories:

Soft dates: Popular types of soft dates include Medjool and Barhi.

Semi-Dry dates: This type of date includes Piarom, Sayer, and Rabbi.

Dry dates: Zahedi dates are the most popular among all the dry dates.

Signs That Your Dates Have Gone Bad

There are a few signs that you can look for to tell if your dates have gone bad.

• The first is mold. If you see any mold on the surface of the fruit, it’s best to discard it.
• Another sign is browning. If the dates start to turn brown, this is a sign of oxidation and they might not taste as good.
• If the dates smell sour or off, they’ve probably gone bad and should be thrown away.
• When dates get sticky and slimy to the touch, it’s time to dispose of or throw them away.

If you’re not sure whether or not your dates have gone bad, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and throw them away.

LEARN MORE: Can Chia Seeds Go Bad?

Health Issues Associated With Consuming Spoiled Dates

Though there are hardly any health risks associated with consuming dates that have gone bad, still there are some risks associated with eating spoiled fruit.

• The most common risk is food poisoning. This can happen if the dates are contaminated with bacteria or mold. Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating dates, it’s best to see a doctor.
• Another risk is that the dates might contain toxins. These toxins can come from the mold or bacteria that are growing on the fruit. In some cases, these toxins can be harmful and cause serious health problems.

LEARN MORE: Can I Make Kraft Mac and Cheese Without Milk?

Conclusion

In conclusion, like other fruits dates can also go bad if not stored properly. However, if you take the necessary precautions, you can extend their shelf life and enjoy them for months to come.

Follow our tips to prevent your dates from getting spoiled, and if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always better to throw them away. Thanks for reading!