Comparative Study on the Constituents of Sukkari Dates from Different Regions in Saudi Arabia

Palm dates (Phoenix dactylifera) are essential crops in hot, arid climates throughout Asia, particularly on the Arabian Peninsula and in Africa. They are valued for their stability as a food source and for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. Among the varieties produced in Saudi Arabia, Sukkari dates stand out, with the Al-Qassim region being a major producer. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the chemical composition and bioactive constituents of Sukkari dates collected from three Saudi cities located in different administrative regions: Riyadh (Riyadh Region), Onaizah (Al-Qassim Region), and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah (Al-Madinah Region). The dates were collected at two ripening stages: Tamer and Rutab. To assess the nutritional composition and mineral profile, total carbohydrate content was measured using the phenol-sulfuric acid method, soluble protein was quantified using the Bradford assay, total carotenoids were measured spectrophotometrically, and vitamin C content was estimated by iodometric titration. Mineral and trace element contents were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results revealed regional differences in sugar, protein, carotenoid, and vitamin C content. Al-Riyadh Rutab dates exhibited the highest sugar concentration (46.25 mg/g), while Onaizah Tamer (ONZT) had the lowest (17.25 mg/g). Additionally, soluble protein levels were highest in Al-Riyadh Tamer (0.29 mg/ml), which may be influenced by regional drought conditions. Carotenoid content peaked in ONZ Tamer (8.64 mg/100g) but decreased with maturation. Vitamin C levels were higher in the Rutab stages, with ONZ Rutab containing the highest concentration (0.9 mg%). Although these findings provide valuable insights into the composition  of Sukkari dates, monitoring trace elements remains crucial for public health and environmental safety. Future research should include a broader range of date varieties and processing methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of their nutritional profiles and bioactive components. These findings lay the groundwork for exploring the environmental impacts on date composition and the health benefits of Sukkari dates in Saudi Arabia.