Where Is Magic Dates From Shark Tank Today?
While appearing on "Shark Tank" might be the fairy dust that some food businesses hope will be sprinkled on their success, not every dive into the tank comes with a happily ever after.
Magic Dates appeared on "Shark Tank" Season 13, Episode 15." The company's founder, Diana Jarrar, entered the tank seeking $100,000 for 10% equity in her date snack company. Her business sought to introduce the Middle Eastern snack staple to a larger audience. While the Sharks appreciated the high product margins and the flavor of her dates, there was concern about the potential growth of the company.
Although there could be a growing snack space for the sweet, fruit-forward snacks, many of the Sharks bowed out quickly. Lori Greiner even suggested to Jarrar that she put her efforts and ambition into going back to law school because the snack space was too crowded. But Jarrar was not deterred and focused on the single shark remaining, Mr. Wonderful, Kevin O'Leary. Because O'Leary was underwhelmed with Magic Dates' sales, he offered $150,000 for 33 and ⅓ equity. Jarrar countered, but Mr. Wonderful didn't budge. In the end, Magic Dates accepted the offer. Although the concept of chocolate-covered dates might not be unique, the convenience they offered might have snagged Jarrar the publicity she craved.
Are Magic Dates still casting a sweet spell on snack fans?
Although they're a sweet staple in some cuisines (and some cooks have touted the benefits of dates as a sugar substitute), getting people to swap dates for candy bars or other sugary treats might take a little wizardry. Appearing on "Shark Tank," Magic Dates hoped to entice a larger audience to make that switch to that stone fruit. Still, some were skeptical about the brand's relevance when Twitter users commented that similar snacks could be made at home. While those statements might be valid, Magic Dates is selling a bag of convenience.
On the brand's Instagram, it shared a video where Kevin O'Leary explained why he invested in the product. The concept of a healthier snack option using date paste appealed to his personal eating habits. In turn, he saw that the idea could "blow up" within the parent sector where moms would buy them. Although it is unclear what other strategic investors joined the cause, but it appears that he went through with his deal.
Currently, Magic Dates are available for sale online and at select retailers. A four-pack sampler option retails for $23.99. Each bag has eight to nine snack dates or six chocolate-covered dates.
Why are dates a good sweet treat substitute?
While some Middle Eastern cultures consider dates holy fruits, they're also a staple in some people's diets. From holiday celebrations to anytime snacks, the various date varieties can be enjoyed in plethora of ways. Although some people equate the stone fruit with feelings of gratitude and generosity, more people are discovering dates as a sweet substitute for other refined sugar offerings.
Medjool dates have a high fiber content, don't cause blood sugar level spikes, and have antioxidant qualities. Although some people appreciate that grabbing a piece of fruit might be a more balanced eating choice than a candy bar, dates can be the building block to a more balanced indulgence. They can be used in everything from pureeing dates into recipes as an ingredient swap to covering the dates in chocolate and other toppings. The fruit can even be stuffed with a hidden treat where the pit used to reside.
Even though some people might only think of bacon-wrapped dates on a tapas menu, they can be one of the most versatile fruits in the kitchen. And as Magic Dates can attest, they make a great snack.