Dates are a popular and healthy snack, and Medjool dates are especially prized for their size and sweetness. But the production of Israeli dates is often tied to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the occupation of Palestinian territories.
The human rights concerns surrounding Israeli date production are complex, and many consumers are looking for ethically sourced alternatives. This article explores the issues surrounding Israeli dates, discusses the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, and highlights some alternative options so you can make informed choices.
The Controversy: Occupation and Exploitation
Dates grown in Israel aren’t without controversy. Here’s a little background.
Illegal Settlements and International Law
Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law. UN Resolution 2334, for example, states that Israeli settlements are a violation of international law. Date farms in these settlements help make the occupation economically feasible, because the settlements rely on resources and land that has often been taken from Palestinians.
Human Rights Concerns and Labor Practices
There have been reports of human rights abuses and exploitation of Palestinian workers on Israeli date farms. Human Rights Watch, for example, has documented instances of child labor and unfair labor practices in Israeli settlements. Palestinian workers often make less money and don’t have the same protections as their Israeli counterparts.
The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement
The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement is an international effort to pressure Israel to comply with international law and respect the rights of Palestinians.
One of the tactics used by the BDS movement is to boycott Israeli products, including dates, in an effort to exert economic pressure on the country.
These boycotts are designed to discourage consumers from buying goods produced in Israeli settlements.
In some ways, the BDS movement is similar to the boycott of South Africa during apartheid, which showed how boycotts can bring about social and political change.
These boycotts have reduced the amount of Israeli dates entering certain markets, including the United States.
How to identify and avoid Israeli dates
If you’re interested in avoiding dates grown in Israel, here are some tips:
Check the label
Look for the country of origin on the package. If it says “Product of Israel,” you’ll know to avoid it. You may also want to avoid any product with a barcode that begins with the numbers 729.
Some brands you may want to boycott include Jordan River, King Solomon, King Medjoul, Carmel, Barhi, and Medjool Plus.
Talk with retailers
Ask shopkeepers and managers where their dates come from, and ask them to confirm the country of origin. If they stock Israeli dates, let them know you’d prefer to buy dates from another source. You may even want to ask them to inform their suppliers that you’d like them to carry non-Israeli dates.
Ethical alternatives: Supporting Palestinian farmers and other sources
If you’re looking for a way to support Palestinian farmers and businesses, consider purchasing Palestinian dates directly.
Palestinian dates
There are several brands to look for, including Al-Rowad, Sultan, and Qitaf. Buying Palestinian dates can help sustain Palestinian communities and agriculture.
Dates from other regions
Dates are produced in other countries, too. You can often find dates from Jordan and the United States, and there are other regions as well.
It’s a good idea to research the labor practices and ethical standards of date producers, no matter where they’re located. Look for certifications and fair trade practices to help you make your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dates are produced in Israel?
Israel is a major producer of Medjool dates, alongside other varieties like Deglet Noor, Halawi, and Zahidi. Medjool dates are particularly well-known and widely exported. Most Israeli dates are grown in the Jordan Valley.
How do you know if a date is Israeli?
The easiest way to identify Israeli dates is by checking the packaging. Look for “Product of Israel” or “Grown in Israel” on the label. If the dates are packaged without clear origin information, it can be more challenging to determine their source. Dates sourced from Palestine and other countries will have their own origin labels.
Are Israeli dates good?
Israeli dates, particularly Medjool dates, are generally considered to be high-quality. They are known for their large size, soft texture, and sweet, caramel-like flavor. Taste is subjective, of course, but Israeli Medjool dates are a popular choice worldwide.
What brands are boycotting Israeli dates?
I don’t have access to a regularly updated list of brands that are boycotting Israeli dates. Boycotts can change frequently. To find this information, I recommend researching consumer advocacy groups and organizations that track boycott efforts related to Israeli products, as they often maintain updated lists.
In Closing
It’s important to remember that buying Israeli dates can mean supporting the occupation of Palestinian territories. The money you spend might inadvertently contribute to the continuation of that occupation and the human rights abuses that go along with it.
As consumers, we have the power to support ethical and just practices through the choices we make. By staying informed, advocating for change, and seeking out ethical alternatives, we can all contribute to a more just and equitable world and support Palestinian rights.