Variations in physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of ‘Mejhoul’ dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) from Morocco and new countries of its expansion

‘Mejhoul’ date cultivar originated from Morocco and largely spread around the world. It is of high commercial value and is considered to be one of the best-exported dates concerning its fruit quality and size in comparison with other cultivars. This study aims to investigate variations within the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of ‘Mejhoul’ dates sampled from its original growing areas in Morocco and other countries, where the cultivar is expanded in the recent years. Dates samples were collected from the most important production areas of the ‘Mejhoul’ cultivar in Morocco (Figuig, Bouanane, Boudnib, Difat Ziz, Rissani and Zagora) and the United States of America, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Palestine. Variance analysis of pH, moisture, ash and sugar content show a significant difference (p < 0.05) within ‘Mejhoul’ cultivar samples. Statistical analysis (Principal Component Analysis “PCA”) allows the classification of samples into three groups. The first group holds ‘Mejhoul’ samples from Morocco, including Figuig, Boudnib and Difat Ziz, characterized by high water content and high density of TVC and Yeasts. The second group is composed of all international samples (Palestine, Jordan, USA and KSA) in addition to samples from Rissani (Morocco), presents reverse characteristics compared to the first group. The third group includes ‘Mejhoul’ from Bouanane and Zagora (Morocco). Despite the availability of favorable conditions, making Morocco an ideal area for ‘Mejhoul’ production. However export of this date cultivar remains limited from Morocco due to uncontrolled production techniques and environmental factors.