California Dates offer a naturally sweet, plant-based alternative for
food manufacturers, foodservice, and culinary professionals seeking
on-trend menu options and innovative product development. Their unique flavor, versatility, and nutritional profile make them ideal for sweet and savory applications.

By replacing refined sugar and artificial sweeteners with California Dates, industry professionals can deliver products that align with national health and nutrition guidelines and meet growing consumer demand for
cleaner, more nutrient-rich sugar alternatives.

California Dates are:

  • 100% natural, non-GMO, plant-based, vegan/vegetarian-friendly
  • Heart-healthy and diabetes-friendly: the natural sugars in dates are balanced with fiber, resulting in a low glycemic index (GI 43 per 100g), for steady energy without sugar spikes​
  • Rich in fiber, antioxidants, 6 essential B vitamins, and 7 key minerals, including potassium and magnesium
  • Free from fat, cholesterol, and sodium
  • Zero added sugar
  • Aligned with “Food as Medicine” and clean-label trends

Culinary Versatility:

  • Replaces refined sugar 1:1 in most recipes—ideal for desserts, cocktails, sauces, marinades, and dressings
  • Delicious in both sweet and savory dishes, from granola bars and breakfast snacks to salads, stuffed meats, and more
  • Use fresh, chopped dates for salads, bowls, and appetizers; date syrup or paste in baking, sauces, and beverages

LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION? VISIT THE CALIFORNIA DATES RECIPE CENTER

For Food Manufacturers

Product Development | Innovation | Research & Development

  • Clean-label sugar replacement for snack bars, granola, cereals, dairy (yogurt, ice cream), plant-based analogues, and ready-to-drink beverages.
  • Date paste to add natural sweetness and moisture as a binder in baked goods and energy snacks.
  • Date syrup to provide caramel notes and smooth viscosity in sauces, dressings, batters, and beverage concentrates.
  • A replacement for refined sugar 1:1 with date paste or syrup in most recipes for a natural sweetener, added fiber, and micronutrient boost.

For Foodservice Executives & Chefs

  • Enhance salads, appetizers, power bowls, and entrees with chopped or stuffed dates
  • Use California Date syrup and paste for sweetening house-made sauces, marinades, salad dressings, cocktails/mocktails
  • In desserts, replace sugar or other sweeteners; try dates in cheesecakes, crumbles, and baked goods; use whole on cheese boards
  • Supports health-forward menus and sports nutrition with steady energy and “no sugar crash”

Storage & Handling Tips

  • Shelf-stable thanks to low moisture and natural sugars
  • Store in a cool, dry place; refrigerate or freeze for longer shelf life
  • Rehydrate older dates by soaking briefly in warm water

 For more tips, click here

Sustainably Grown

Proudly produced in California’s Coachella Valley using sustainable farming practices.  

Minimal transport carbon footprint compared to imported sweeteners.​

Find a List of California Dates Retail, Wholesale, and Ingredient Sales Contacts Here