Ultimate Guide to the Mejhoul Date

The Remarkable Odyssey of the Mejhoul Date

Even today, the origin and meaning of the term Mejhoul (also spelled Majhūl, Medjool, Medjoul, or Majhool) remain shrouded in mystery.

The first written mention of this name dates back to the 17th century, in Al-Arabi Mizin's book dedicated to Tafilalet, a southeastern territory of Morocco. During that time, this region, located at the doorstep of the desert, was already renowned for the unique quality of its dates. Traders went to great lengths to transport them along grueling caravan routes to reach Moroccan ports, where they were then shipped to European markets, particularly Spain and England. The date’s rarity, unmatched texture, and flavor make it a truly exceptional delicacy.

Caravanes dans le désert marocain.
Back in the 17th century, the Mejhoul date from Tafilalet was already being heralded as the "pearl of dates", fetching exorbitant prices on the English markets.

Morocco, Birthplace of the Mejhoul Date Palm Tree

Ferme Medjool Star dans la région d'Errachidia
Known to humans for centuries, the date palm was nicknamed the "fruit of paradise." It was indispensable to those who embarked on the long caravan routes.

The fame of Tafilalet and its dates heralds back to ancient times. Descending from the High Atlas Mountains, the rivers Draâ and Ziz give rise to fertile groves of date palm, also known as trees of life, as they have been essential to the population for millennia, thriving despite sudden temperature changes and extreme conditions, scorching in summer and sometimes freezing in winter.

Over the centuries, the slow process of selecting the best plants and providing prudent care has led to the production of a particularly juicy date, as generous as it is delicious. Packed with vitamins and minerals and having a high energy value, this fruit of paradise was indispensable to all those who lived off the perilous caravan trade, crossing the deserts of North Africa toward the Persian Gulf, West Africa, or Europe.

The Worldwide Spread of the Mejhoul Date

In the early 20th century, a devastating epidemic known as Bayoud disease or fusarium wilt threatened the palm groves of Tafilalet with extinction.

In 1927, scientist Walter Swingle made a decision that would change the course of the Mejhoul’s history: he acquired six carefully selected palm tree seedlings from the Boudenib palm grove, known for producing the best Mejhoul dates. He was also offered five young plants. A total of 11 plants were transported to the United States, where they were quarantined until 1936 to ensure their perfect health. Nine of them survived and were replanted at a research station of the US Department of Agriculture in California. The young plants that they propagated were then distributed to American farmers and, starting in the 1960s, introduced to Mexico, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, South Africa, Namibia, and Australia.

The 1990s marked a turning point in the propagation of the Mejhoul variety, with the introduction of the vitroplant (in vitro culture) reproduction technique, which ensures the quality and good health of young shoots. This technological advancement has accelerated the development of production throughout the world and in an increasing number of countries. Mejhoul dates are now the star of dates worldwide.

Today, all Mejhoul dates from major producers around the world are the descendants of the 11 date palms meticulously selected in 1927 in the oasis of Boudnib, located in the Errachidia province of southeastern Morocco.

The Revival of the Historic Mejhoul Birthplace

Errachidia, the original birthplace of the Mejhoul date palm tree, provides the ideal environment for producing exceptional dates that are renowned for their unique flavor and health benefits.

Thanks to the ambitious Green Morocco Plan, launched in 2008 by the Ministry of Agriculture, the date palm groves in the province of Errachidia are experiencing a true renaissance. This action plan pays special tribute to the palm’s unique heritage and aims to rehabilitate it while restructuring and modernizing the production of Moroccan Mejhoul dates.

Near Boudnib, the historical birthplace of the Mejhoul date, stands Medjool Star, the largest date palm farm in Morocco. The Mejhoul date palm’s original soil naturally provides the ideal conditions for the trees’ health and growth.At the Medjool Star Farm, ancestral techniques are combined with the latest scientific innovations and advances to develop the largest integrated production of high-quality Moroccan Mejhoul dates, following sustainable development principles that respect the environment and support local populations.

This renewal is the first step toward achieving the goal set by Medjool Star: to put Morocco, the birthplace of the Mejhoul date, at the forefront of the global production of the Queen of Dates.

The Mejhoul Date: An Ultimate Natural Health Ally

For over 6,000 years, the majestic date palm has been a cherished part of human civilization, earning its place as one of the world's oldest cultivated fruit trees. Praised for its impressive nutritional profile, this ancient fruit has stood the test of time, and its benefits have been lauded by humans for centuries, with scientific and medical research providing further confirmation.

With their plump and succulent appearance, distinctive woody-brown color, and delicately shiny skin, Mejhoul dates offer a tender texture that is perfectly balanced: they are neither too soft nor too hard. These precious dates come in a variety of sizes, from approximately ten to thirty grams, but it's in the palate that they truly shine, unleashing a delightfully rich flavor profile that boasts gentle notes of caramel.

Harvested by hand at the peak of ripeness to ensure maximum vitamin and mineral content, Medjool Star dates are thoughtfully packaged with no additives or preservatives. These fresh, 100% natural dates are ready for consumption, offering pure pleasure to both your taste buds and your body.

Packed with an abundance of vitamins and minerals, the Mejhoul date is a true gem in terms of nutrition. It is the perfect addition to any health and wellness routine, particularly for those interested in a low-cholesterol or low-glycemic diet.
Dattes Mejhoul Medjool Star

Thanks to the exquisite Mejhoul date, indulging in a healthy snack has never been easier. Well-loved by both young and old, these delectable treats are delightful in their natural form. Boasting an endless array of culinary possibilities, Mejhoul dates can also be used to create tantalizing appetizers, mouthwatering main courses, and decadent desserts.

Énergie et sport.

Energy

Need an energy-boosting snack? A perfect pre- and post-workout food, dates can help prevent muscle cramps.

Santé et coeur.

Health

Many scientists tout the date as preventing hypertension and heart attacks thanks to the fruit’s high levels of magnesium and potassium.

Balance et fibres.

Balance

With a high fiber content of approximately 7 g per 100 g serving, dates create a feeling of fullness while their glucose content helps curb sugar cravings. Their low glycemic index is also noteworthy.

Sans matières grasses.

Fat-free

Mejhoul dates are cholesterol- and fat-free, making them an ideal choice for a healthy and balanced diet.

Naturel et sans conservateurs.

Natural

100% natural, Medjool Star's dates are additive and preservative free.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Mejhoul Date

Want to become an expert in choosing the most flavorful and high-quality Mejhoul dates? Here are some tips to help you take your Mejhoul expertise to the next level:

Dattes Mejhoul, différentes tailles.
Size
When it comes to Mejhoul dates, there are various sizes available, ranging from small (less than 14 g) to jumbo or super jumbo (more than 27 g). Whatever size you choose, you will always enjoy same mouthwatering flavor.
Datte Mejhoul en gros plan, séparation de la peau.
Skin
Did you know that the skin of the Mejhoul date tends to naturally detach when it's fully ripe on the tree? So, if you see some degree of skin detachment, there’s no need to worry: it doesn't affect the fruit’s quality or freshness. It's just an aesthetic characteristic to be appreciated.
Texture de la datte Mejhoul.
Texture
Experience the satisfaction of sinking your fingers into a perfectly ripened Mejhoul date. A gentle squeeze should easily open up the fruit to reveal its luscious and shiny flesh. Any resistance may indicate a drier fruit with fibrous flesh that takes longer to savor.
Mejhoul Date Storage Tips

Unlock the full aroma of Mejhoul dates by storing them with their natural moisture. Here are some essential rules and tricks to ensure their perfect storage:

  • Datte Mejhoul à température ambiante.

    Room Temperature
    To preserve the moistness of your dates, we recommend that you store them in an airtight container. The longer you wait to enjoy them, the greater the risk of them losing their texture and flavor.

  • Datte Mejhoul dans un bocal.

    Refrigerator
    Storing your dates in the refrigerator (for up to two months) is the best way to preserve their freshness and delicious flavor. This dry, cool environment will ensure that your dates stay moist and delicious until you're ready to enjoy them. So when the craving strikes, you’ll be sure to experience their softness and delightful aroma.

  • Dattes Mejhoul au congélateur.

    Freezer
    Freezing your dates is an excellent way to preserve them for a longer period of time. Simply place them in an airtight container or plastic jar. (If using a freezer bag, make sure to press out any excess air.) Freezing will ensure that your dates remain fresh and tasty for quite some time.

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