Figs vs. Dates: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Published on December 13, 2023
Figs are soft, sweet fruits with tiny seeds, while dates are sweet, chewy fruits from date palm trees.
Key Differences
Figs are fruits with a unique, slightly sweet taste and a soft texture, containing multiple small seeds. In contrast, dates are naturally sweet, with a rich, caramel-like flavor and a chewy texture.
Figs grow on the Ficus tree, a member of the Mulberry family. While, dates come from the date palm tree and are a staple in Middle Eastern diets.
Figs can be eaten fresh or dried, and their skin is edible. However, dates are often found dried and have a long shelf life due to their low moisture content.
Nutritional content of figs includes dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Dates are high in sugar and energy, providing a quick source of energy.
Figs have a more delicate and perishable nature compared to dates. Dates, due to their preservation process, can be stored for longer periods.
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Comparison Chart
Taste
Slightly sweet, delicate
Rich, caramel-like, very sweet
Texture
Soft with tiny seeds
Chewy and dense
Origin
Ficus tree
Date palm tree
Consumption Form
Fresh or dried, edible skin
Often found dried, pitted
Nutritional Content
Fiber, vitamins, minerals
High in sugar, energy source
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Figs and Dates Definitions
Figs
Figs are edible fruits with soft skin and tiny seeds.
She enjoyed fresh figs with honey for breakfast.
Dates
Dates are commonly found in dried form.
Dried dates are a staple in many Middle Eastern diets.
Figs
Figs can be consumed both fresh and dried.
Dried figs are a popular snack in many cultures.
Dates
Dates are sweet fruits from date palm trees.
She used dates to sweeten her smoothie naturally.
Figs
Figs are a source of dietary fiber and nutrients.
Adding figs to the diet can improve digestion.
Dates
Dates have a chewy texture and a rich flavor.
The chewy texture of dates makes them great for baking.
Figs
Figs grow on the Ficus tree, a member of the Mulberry family.
The backyard's Ficus tree produced abundant figs each season.
Dates
Dates are high in sugar and serve as an energy source.
Athletes often eat dates for a quick energy boost.
Figs
Figs are often used in desserts and savory dishes.
Fig tart is a delightful dessert for special occasions.
Dates
Dates are a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
Stuffed dates are a popular appetizer at parties.
Figs
Any of various trees or shrubs of the genus Ficus, especially F. carica, native to the Mediterranean region and widely cultivated for its edible multiple fruit.
Dates
The time stated in terms of the day, month, and year
What is the date of your birth?.
Figs
The sweet, hollow, pear-shaped, multiple fruit of this plant, having many tiny seedlike fruits.
Dates
A statement of calendar time, as on a document.
Figs
Any of several plants bearing similar fruit.
Figs
The fruit of such a plant.
Figs
A trivial or contemptible amount
Not worth a fig.
Figs
Dress; array
In full fig.
Figs
Physical condition; shape
In fine fig.
Figs
Plural of fig
FAQs
What type of fruit is a fig?
A fig is a soft, sweet fruit with tiny seeds.
Where do dates come from?
Dates come from date palm trees.
What's the shelf life of figs compared to dates?
Figs have a shorter shelf life than dates, which can be stored longer due to their low moisture content.
Do dates need to be pitted before eating?
Yes, dates often need to be pitted before consumption.
Can figs be used in cooking?
Yes, figs can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Are dates more nutritious fresh or dried?
Dates are commonly consumed dried, retaining their nutritional value.
Are dates a good source of energy?
Yes, dates are high in sugar and provide a quick energy source.
Can you eat figs fresh?
Yes, figs can be eaten fresh or dried.
Can dates be eaten as a snack?
Yes, dates are a popular snack, especially in dried form.
Are there different varieties of figs?
Yes, there are several varieties of figs, each with unique flavors and textures.
What is the texture of a fig?
Figs have a soft texture with small seeds inside.
Is it necessary to cook dates before eating?
No, dates can be eaten raw or used in cooking.
How are dates different from other dried fruits?
Dates are sweeter and have a chewier texture compared to most dried fruits.
Are figs good for digestion?
Yes, figs are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
Do dates contain any vitamins?
Dates are a good source of vitamins, especially Vitamin B6.
What is the main use of figs in cooking?
Figs are often used to add sweetness and texture to dishes.
Can both figs and dates be used in baking?
Yes, both figs and dates are excellent for baking due to their natural sweetness and texture.
How do dates taste?
Dates have a rich, caramel-like, very sweet taste.
What dishes are figs commonly used in?
Figs are used in desserts, salads, and various savory dishes.
Are figs a seasonal fruit?
Yes, figs are typically seasonal, though dried figs are available year-round.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
