In this study, we aimed to produce novel fruit bars by using two different types of popular
date cultivars (Nabtat Ali and Sukkari). Standard procedures were adopted for preparing
the fruit bar. However, in this study, products were devoid of any sweet additives, as dates
are rich in natural sugars. Various analysis (proximate composition, total phenolics
content, antioxidant activity, colour, textural profile, and sensory quality evaluation) were
performed to evaluate the overall virtues of date based fruit bar. Results showed date fruit
bars to be rich in protein, fat and carbohydrates with good energy values. However,
decrease in total phenolics and inhibition of DPPHd radical was observed in fruit bars
compared to raw dates. Texture wise, products had high fracturability, indicating easy to
bite and chew nature, thus rendering it suitable for elderly people and small children.
Results of sensory quality evaluation indicated dates to have excellent potential to be
converted into fruit bars. Results generated in this study suggest date-based fruit bars may
be expected to fulfill the requirements of health conscious consumers. It is anticipated that
this novel food product will attract better marketability at the international level.