Good dates should look plump, feel soft, and smell mildly sweet. Avoid packs that look very dry, sticky in a hard clump, or have a sour smell.
Medjool dates are large and soft, so they are popular for snacking and gifting. Ajwa dates have a richer taste and are often kept for special occasions. Stuffed dates are a ready sweet when you want something more festive.
Store dates in a closed container after opening. They stay softer when they are not left open to the air.