As Ramadan approaches, calls to boycott Israeli dates have intensified, with activists urging consumers to scrutinize their purchases to avoid supporting Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories.
A major portion of Israel’s date exports come from farms located in the occupied West Bank, raising ethical concerns over land appropriation and labor practices. Advocacy groups argue that purchasing these dates indirectly funds the Israeli settlement expansion and military occupation.
Brands to Avoid
Campaigners have identified several brands linked to Israeli date exports, including:
- Hadiklaim – Sells dates under labels such as King Solomon, Jordan River, Jordan River Bio-Top, and MyJool.
- Mehadrin – Associated with Premium Medjoul, Fancy Medjoul, Red Sea, and Royal Treasure.
- Other Companies – MTex, Edom, Carmel Agrexco, and Arava are also known exporters of Israeli-grown dates.
Activists have warned that some Israeli dates are deceptively labeled as “produce of Palestine” to bypass boycotts. Consumers are urged to check packaging details carefully and verify the origin of their purchases.
Ethical Alternatives
In response, advocates are encouraging consumers to opt for ethically sourced dates from Palestinian farmers or alternative regions. Trusted Palestinian brands such as Zaytoun and Yaffa are recommended, while dates from Algeria, Tunisia, the UAE, or the U.S. (California) also serve as viable alternatives.
Consumer Action Ahead of Ramadan
The boycott movement is gaining traction on social media, with viral campaigns educating consumers on how to identify Israeli products and make ethical shopping choices. Supporters emphasize that by avoiding Israeli dates, consumers can take a stand for Palestinian rights during the holy month.