A technical guide covers the production, postharvest handling, and marketing of Medjool dates

Mejhoul is one of the most highly valued date varieties in international markets, appreciated for its quality, size and commercial value. Its management requires specific knowledge during cultivation, but also after harvest, when preservation, conditioning and final presentation directly influence product valorisation.

The publication MEJHOUL: Importance, Production Techniques, Valorisation and Marketing brings together technical information on this variety and provides a comprehensive overview of its productive and commercial importance. The book was published in 2024, authored by Dr. Reda Meziani and edited by the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation.

A variety with high commercial value

The book notes that the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is one of the most important fruit crops in arid and semi-arid regions, with distribution across the Middle East, North Africa, the Sahel, South Africa, Europe and the United States. Annual global date production is estimated at more than 9 million tonnes.

Within this context, Mejhoul is presented as one of the most recognised and appreciated varieties worldwide. The publication highlights its importance for Morocco and its economic relevance in international markets.

From cultivation to postharvest

Although the publication covers the full cycle of the variety, from geographical distribution and varietal characteristics to propagation, planting, irrigation, fertilisation, pollination and pest and disease management, it is especially relevant for professionals involved in postharvest handling.

The chapter on Mejhoul date harvesting and conditioning includes sections on harvesting, preservation techniques, pre-cooling, fumigation, sorting, washing and drying.

These processes are essential to maintain fruit quality, reduce losses and prepare the product for destination markets.

Storage, packaging and marketing

The book also includes a chapter on the economic and commercial aspects of the Mejhoul variety. It covers storage, packaging, production costs and marketing, all of which are key to linking postharvest quality with the final value of the product.

The publication also provides information on field practices that influence final quality, such as pollination, fruit and bunch thinning, fruit protection and pest and disease management.

A technical publication for producers and operators

With 141 pages, MEJHOUL: Importance, Production Techniques, Valorisation and Marketing offers a technical overview of the variety, with particular attention to the Moroccan experience and its position in international markets.

Access the publication: “MEJHOUL: Importance, Production Techniques, Valorisation and Marketing”