YOU FOUNDED DATEOLATE IN 2019. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE THAT?
My background is in food science at the bachelor’s level, and I later earned a master’s degree in business and accountancy. In the U.S., I worked as an accounts payable specialist and was later promoted to fixed asset accountant at the LA Fitness headquarters in Irvine. … Working there gave me a strong foundation in both business, and the health and wellness industry. Being in that environment encouraged me to think more seriously about my longtime dream—creating a date and chocolate product.
WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET THE IDEA FOR DATEOLATE?
My mother was diabetic, so I understood the benefits of dates for people managing sugar intake. Studying food science at university, I took every course I could related to chocolate and confections, always dreaming of combining these two ingredients (dates and chocolate) into something new. … In 2013, my husband and I decided to immigrate to the United States. Even while working full time here, I kept thinking about the recipe, production, machines, permits, packaging, and how to turn this dream into a reality.
DO CALIFORNIA DATES TASTE DIFFERENT FROM THE DATES YOU ENJOYED IN YOUR CHILDHOOD?
In Iran, dates are primarily cultivated in the southern regions and some central provinces, such as Kerman. Well-known varieties include Mazafati, Piarom, Barhi, and Rotab, among others. In terms of taste, Californiagrown dates are indeed different. The key difference lies in their moisture level and texture. … Their lower moisture content makes them the perfect match with chocolate, resulting in the best flavor and texture.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR CANDY-MAKING PROCESS.
The chocolate processing is fully automated, which is a major advantage. But some parts—like making the date paste—are still done half manually and half with a machine. I’m continuously exploring ways to fully automate this part as well. I hope to find experts specializing in dates and date-processing machinery.
IS THERE ANYTHING NEW THAT YOU’RE WORKING ON?
Currently, we offer pouches with individually wrapped bite-size pieces—perfect for lunch boxes, post-workout snacks, or even as a sweet treat for teenagers. … Looking ahead, I’m considering expanding into other packaging options, such as chocolate bars or mini bars.
The post Meet the Founder Turning Dates and Chocolate Into a Cult Favorite Treat appeared first on Orange Coast.