Break fast with Zaytoun
Keep an eye on the sky – the Ramadan moon is expected to appear on Friday February 28th. This signals the beginning of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and a time of great significance for Muslims worldwide.
Ramadan
A commemoration of Muhammad’s first revelation, Ramadan is a month of prayer and reflection for the Islamic community. Muslims are encouraged to read the Quran, give to the poor, and fast.
Anybody not exempt for medical or safety reasons must fast during daylight hours. This usually means no food, drink, tobacco or sexual activity. Participants typically have one meal before sunrise, known as suhur, and another after sunset, called iftar – this is often a big community event with many people eating together.
Dates
Any food will do OK for breaking your fast, but dates are traditionally a popular choice. They were a personal favourite of the Prophet Muhammad and he recommended them as the ideal way to begin the iftar. Following Muhammad’s practices as closely as possible is a priority for Muslims everywhere.
There’s a scientific basis for the choice as well. Dates are rich in simple sugars, providing a quick and powerful energy boost that won’t upset your stomach after a day of fasting. They also contain a lot of water – just what you need if you haven’t been drinking all day – plus plenty of vital nutrients and vitamins. And of course, they’re a delicious treat that’s very much worth looking forward to.
Zaytoun
Zaytoun are a UK-based social enterprise who support Palestinian farmers through fair trade. Their products include matfoul, olive oil, dates and almonds, all ethically sourced and sustainably grown – plus you’re helping farming communities to meet the challenges of occupation.
One of Zaytoun’s signature products is Medjoul dates. Grown in the naturally fertile soil of Jericho, they’re known as the “king of dates” due to their large size and rich flavour. Date palms are unusually resilient, able to adapt to drought and saline soils better than most crops – this makes them a potent symbol for Palestine, where water restrictions limit what can be successfully grown.
Support
Supporting the people of Palestine is more important now than ever before. This Ramadan, you can embrace tradition while helping out those who need it most. And when the products are as delicious and high-quality as Zaytoun’s, it’s a very easy way to help.
