Fruits of the date palm ( Phoenix dactylifera ). Vary in colour, shape and size, and may be soft, dry or semi-dry. Contain high levels of sugar, amounts and individual types of sugars varying among cultivars, but small amounts of vitamins. Vitamin C content is relatively high in fresh fruits, but is reduced to trace amounts by drying. Served as dessert fruits and incorporated into many food products, especially cakes and biscuits. In addition, in Arab countries, dates are also used in preparation of syrups, vinegar and sugar substitutes. Date shells Marine bivalves ( Lithophaga lithophaga) occurring along shores of the Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic, which bore into rocks using a secreted acid. Consumed as a table delicacy in some Mediterranean regions. Dating Process of marking a product or its outer packaging with date information, such as date of manufacture or date by which the product should be consumed to ensure quality.