Sukkari Dates vs. Sukkari Rutab-Differences Importer Should Know
May 10, 2023
Sukkari Dates vs. Sukkari Rutab – Key Differences Every Importer Should Know
Sukkari dates are one of Saudi Arabia’s most sought-after export varieties. For importers, food distributors and wholesale buyers, understanding the difference between Sukkari dates (dry) and Sukkari Rutab (semi-ripe) is essential for selecting the right product, planning logistics and meeting market expectations. This guide explains appearance, moisture, storage, commercial uses, and export recommendations — and shows why Palmera for Dates is a reliable partner for bulk Sukkari supply.
What Makes Sukkari Dates Special?
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Origin & identity: Sukkari (سكَّري) — literally “sugary” — originates from the Al-Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.
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Flavor & texture: Known for an exceptional, caramel-like sweetness and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
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Visual cues: Mature Sukkari typically show a thin golden to light-brown skin and a plump grain.
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Market names / keyword variants: To reach regional buyers, use variations such as Sukkari Hurma (Turkish markets), Sukkari Datteln (German markets), and singular forms like Sukari date in product specs.
Sukkari Rutab vs Sukkari Dry – Appearance & Texture
Sukkari Rutab (semi-ripe)
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Harvested at the soft, semi-ripe stage.
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Appearance: light golden color, glossy surface, may glisten from retained moisture.
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Texture: very soft, juicy and tender — often described as “creamy” or “melting.”
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Use case: premium fresh retail sales, high-end food service, immediate consumption markets.
Sukkari Dry (Tamr / Tamar)
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Harvested at full ripeness and dried naturally on the palm.
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Appearance: darker brown, firmer flesh, slightly wrinkled exterior.
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Texture: chewier and denser with concentrated sweetness.
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Use case: long-distance export, retail packings, ingredient supply for bakeries and manufacturers.
Moisture, Shelf Life and Storage for Sukkari Dates
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Moisture levels: Sukkari Rutab typically has higher moisture (roughly 35–40%), making it perishable and requiring cold-chain handling. Sukkari Dry (Tamr) normally ranges around 15–20% moisture, making it shelf-stable for months if properly packed.
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Shelf life:
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Rutab: Best refrigerated; short shelf life (days to a few weeks)—use cold packs or chilled containers.
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Dry (Tamr): Can last months at ambient temperatures if sealed in airtight packaging; refrigeration extends shelf life further.
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Storage & transit:
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Rutab: Recommend refrigerated transport and rapid distribution (reefer containers, cold storage at destination).
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Dry: Standard export packing (cartons with moisture barrier) is usually sufficient; reefer optional depending on climate.
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Recommended Cold-Chain for Sukkari Rutab
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Use refrigerated containers (2–4°C) or gel-pack insulated cartons for short shipments.
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Minimize door-to-door transit time and ensure refrigerated warehousing at destination.
Wholesale & Export Considerations for Sukkari Hurma (for Turkish markets)
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Turkish importers commonly call it “Sukkari Hurma”
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Turkish buyers often prefer medium-soft Rutab for premium retail, and dry Sukkari for processed food use.
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labelling meets Turkish import requirements and provide clear specs on moisture %, grade and packaging.
Supplying Sukkari Datteln to Europe – Quality & Packaging Tips (for German markets)
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For EU markets, prepare documentation: phytosanitary certificates, HACCP, and lab test results.
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Recommended packaging for EU retail: 250g/500g retail boxes (with inner barrier) and 5kg bulk cartons for wholesale distribution.
Commercial Uses: Retail Packs, Bakery Ingredients & Gifting (Why Importers Choose Sukkari)
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Retail & gourmet gifting: Sukkari’s golden color and soft texture make it ideal for premium retail packs and Ramadan gift boxes.
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Food manufacturing: Date fillings, energy bars, confectionery — Sukkari Dry is preferred for consistent viscosity in production.
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Private label & organic markets: Offer single-variety lots (e.g., Al-Qassim Sukkari) for premium private labels.
How Palmera for Dates Sources and Ships Premium Sukkari Dates ?
Palmera for Dates sources directly from trusted growers in Al-Qassim and processes to export standards. We offer:
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Variety & grade selection (single-variety or mixed batches)
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Packaging options:
- Sukkari Rutab:
a. 500-1000 gram plastic punnet
b. Approx 3 kg carton :
2. Sukkary Dates:
a. 500 gram standup pouch
b. Approx 3 kg carton
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Export logistics: dry and reefer container options; documentation for EU, Turkey, India and beyond.
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Quality assurance: grading, sorting, and lab testing; sample shipments available.
Contact us to request a datasheet, COA, or samples:
FAQ
Q1: What is the moisture % of Sukkari Rutab vs Dry?
A1: Sukkari Rutab typically has ~35–40% moisture; Sukkari Dry (Tamr) usually measures ~15–20% moisture.
Q2: Can Rutab be exported long distance?
A2: Yes, but Rutab needs a cold chain (reefer transport and chilled warehousing). For long routes, many importers choose Sukkari Dry.