Nutritional composition, functional properties, and value-added applications of date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit and its by-products: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Phoenix dactylifera L., commonly known as the date palm, is one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees, highly regarded for its nutritional, medicinal, and economic value. This review presents a comprehensive synthesis of the nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and functional properties of date fruits and their by-products, particularly seeds. Dates are rich in natural sugars, dietary fiber, essential minerals, and phenolic compounds, offering potential health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective effects. The review highlights the valorization of underutilized parts of the date fruit, especially seeds, peels, and fibrous residues, into value-added products such as functional foods, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed. Recent technological advancements, including supercritical CO₂ extraction, fermentation, encapsulation, and nanoformulation, have improved the stability, functionality, and commercial viability of these derivatives. Despite the promising applications, research gaps remain in the full-scale exploitation of underutilized varieties and the industrial-scale utilization of by-products. This review underscores the need for multidisciplinary research, sustainable processing innovations, and regulatory support to harness the full potential of Phoenix dactylifera L. for health, nutrition, and economic sustainability.