DATES are widely consumed during Ramadan because they provide energy for those who fast. The Ajwah date from Medina, for instance, allows you to withstand long hours of fasting without losing your vitality.
Ajwah or the Prophet's Dates are considered the king of dates, says Safa Saleh of Royal Dates, an outlet in Seri Petaling that specialises in dates from Medina.
"Seven Ajwah dates and a glass of milk would provide energy for more than 24 hours," she says. Her father, Saleh Karanah, has been in this business for over 15 years and owns date groves in Medina.
The Prophet also lauded Ajwah as very essential for those who want to improve their health and in the old days, gifts of dates were a must when friends came visiting in Saudi Arabia.
Dates are eaten before a meal, not after, she explains. She is surprised that some people here eat dates after buka puasa.
Basically there are two types of dates - dry and wet but it is generally accepted that Medina dates are the best.
Dates are antibacterial and do not need preservatives. "In one experiment, a box of dates was placed in a rubbish heap. After a month, it was opened and the dates were still in good condition," she says.
She advises Muslims to eat dates for sahur. "Three Ajwah dates are all you need for the day," she says.
But it is not cheap. Ajwah is priced at RM150 per kg, Anbarah (RM110), Saquey (RM50), Mabroom (RM50), Sofry (RM50), Safawy (RM45) and Sukareyah (RM30).

(published: 3/10/2006)