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Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink
Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink

Observer

time06-07-2025

  • Lifestyle
  • Observer

Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink

In the sweltering heat of Oman's summer, especially here in Nizwa, keeping cool is no easy feat. The midday sun beats down relentlessly, making life a constant battle against the scorching temperatures. Finding ways to stay refreshed can feel like a chore; cold drinks are a blessing, and anything that offers relief is welcomed with open arms. Recently, a new infusion of drinks has started to catch people's attention—something truly different, something with a taste and health profile that stands out from the usual fare. It's a natural date juice, made from local Oman dates, and it's quickly becoming a popular choice for those seeking a healthy, refreshing alternative. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink People in Nizwa have been trying it out, and the reactions are promising. 'It's unlike anything I've tasted before—just pure, natural, and genuinely refreshing,' says one anonymous customer. Another adds, 'It's not too sweet but perfectly rehydrating—you can tell it's made from real dates, not syrups or additives.' These comments highlight how the drink stands out because of its simplicity and authenticity, offering something genuinely different from the typical sugary sodas or processed fruit drinks. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink What makes this drink even more special is its connection to the heart of Oman's heritage—the date palm. The date palm is often called the 'Tree of Life' in the Middle East, and for good reason. Dates have been cultivated in this region for thousands of years, and they're central to local cuisine, culture, and economy. Not only Do dates offer a sweet, natural taste, but they are also packed with health benefits. Rich in fibre, vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sugars, dates are a powerhouse for energy, digestion, and overall wellness. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink Despite its storied history and health benefits, developing new products from dates, especially those that go beyond traditional eating, can be tricky. For generations, dates have mainly been enjoyed as a snack or used in cooking and desserts. Creating a beverage that captures their essence without overpowering or losing the natural qualities involves careful innovation. As a market, consumers are increasingly health-conscious and scrutinize ingredients closely. They want products that are not only tasty but also good for their bodies. That's why innovations like this date juice, which is free from preservatives and added sugars, resonate with current food trends. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink However, challenges remain. While local demand is growing, convincing a broader market beyond Oman, or even within the country, is a slow process. There's hesitance—people worry about taste, about whether it's 'nice enough' or if it's worth trying something different. That's why customer feedback has been so crucial. When people try it and get hooked on its natural sweetness and refreshing qualities, it helps build trust and credibility. The enthusiasm seen in Nizwa is promising for future expansion, especially as the brand continues to refine its recipes and expand its flavour offerings. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink Support from local producers and consumers alike plays a vital role here. Buying Omani-made products like this date juice can do a lot to boost the local economy. It encourages young entrepreneurs like Musab Harith Al-Kindi to keep innovating, creating employment, and showcasing Oman's rich agricultural heritage to the world. Supporting local startups not only helps strengthen the economy but also preserves the tradition of date cultivation—an integral part of Oman's identity. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink There's significant potential for this type of product to grow, particularly in health-focused markets. Imagine a future where Omani date infusions become known globally—not just as a traditional snack, but as a superfood in beverages and health drinks. The possibilities include fortified drinks, energy shots, or even organic smoothies, all leveraging the natural benefits of dates. The shift towards clean eating and natural ingredients creates a ripe opportunity for fresh, local products to shine. Musab's journey from a home experiment to opening his own shop shows that with passion and perseverance, even small local ideas can become big successes. His message to young entrepreneurs echoes loudly: 'Just start. You'll face doubts and difficulties, but if you believe in what you're doing, things will fall into place.' His story is a reminder that innovation rooted in tradition can bring both pride and progress. Local Innovator Turns Oman's Dates into a Refreshing New Drink Al Maknooz isn't just about selling a healthy drink—it's about celebrating the resilience of local industries, the importance of traditional crops like dates, and the bright future of Oman's food and beverage scene. As Oman continues to develop its culinary offerings, products like this date juice could pave the way for a broader recognition of natural, health-conscious, and Oman-made goods. With support from local consumers and continued innovation, the potential is boundless.

Metro to fine contractors for shortage of employees
Metro to fine contractors for shortage of employees

Time of India

time18-06-2025

  • Business
  • Time of India

Metro to fine contractors for shortage of employees

Mumbai: Facing tight deadlines across over 150 km of metro lines, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has introduced a new policy to penalise contractors for workforce deficiencies, putting execution front and centre of Mumbai's transit push. Under the revised framework, a 25–50% shortfall in manpower will attract a penalty of Rs 1 lakh per day, while any gap exceeding 50% will invite a fine of Rs 2 lakh daily. Missing key construction milestones, known as Key Dates (KDs), will draw further contractual penalties. The fines will be levied without prior notice. MMRDA sources said the policy aims to enforce discipline and accountability. "Delivery timelines are non-negotiable. This isn't just about penalties—it's about commitment to the city and its commuters," an official said. Periodic audits and manpower reviews will now become part of standard procedure, with general consultants and metro engineers tasked with close monitoring. Contractors will also be required to submit weekly manpower deployment plans, with daily reporting of ground strength. CM Devendra Fadnavis said, "We're not just building metro lines, we're building trust. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch xu hướng AUD/USD? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo This policy isn't punitive, it's progressive. The world is watching how India builds its cities, and Mumbai must lead by example." Deputy CM and MMRDA chairman Eknath Shinde said the city can't afford slowdowns. "MMRDA is working at an unprecedented pace, and there's no room for compromise. If enforcing tough measures is what it takes to stay on track, so be it," he said. Metropolitan commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee said, "Dedicated team leaders for each metro package helped improve site progress. This policy is the logical next step. We aim to commission multiple corridors by year-end; we're not just working faster, we're working smarter."

Roy, Mary Lou and me -- Conor Sketches on his favourite stars and unusual fans
Roy, Mary Lou and me -- Conor Sketches on his favourite stars and unusual fans

Extra.ie​

time16-06-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Extra.ie​

Roy, Mary Lou and me -- Conor Sketches on his favourite stars and unusual fans

His world-class impressions have brought him face-to-face with global sporting icons such as Tiger Woods, José Mourinho and Max Verstappen. But the man behind Conor Sketches says he gets the most joy from channelling Mary Lou McDonald – and her constituency rival Gerry Hutch has also turned out to be a fan. Conor Moore said the Sinn Féin leader is 'the one that I'm loving doing at the minute' and is currently writing her parts for his run of Irish shows in the autumn. Conor Moore. Pic: Brian McEvoy 'Mary Lou is just a brilliant character,' the impressionist told the Irish Mail on Sunday. 'I think she's got a cool voice; she's got that attitude. She's up against the two lads [Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris] all the time and she's definitely one I'm really enjoying.' The Mullingar man added that 'throwing Gerry Hutch into the mix' when he and McDonald went head-to-head in Dublin Central last November 'was fun'. And 'The Monk' has made his appreciation of Moore's work known on no fewer than three occasions. Conor Sketches as Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch. Pic: Instagram 'I did some for the election last year and he commented under the first one and said it was brilliant,' the mimic explained. 'Then I did a thing where all the politicians were on First Dates, and he wrote me a message saying it was brilliant. So that was definitely a relief.' The alleged crime boss-turned-wannabe politician acknowledged Moore's work again when he featured in a hilarious St Patrick's Day skit earlier this year, in which The Monk accompanied Micheál Martin to meet Donald Trump in the White House. 'He put up on his social media [saying], 'Give this fella a follow, brilliant.' Then I really knew he really liked it.' While GAA personalities provided much of the 36-year-old's earlier material, Moore has become the go-to impersonator in the ego-filled worlds of golf, Formula 1 and soccer – and it seems it isn't just The Monk who can laugh at himself. Pic:Moore said 'every single one' of the stars he has met – and often lampooned in their presence – has been 'absolutely bang on'. 'It nearly makes your job harder to do, because at the start, you nearly think these people aren't real, so you're just taking the mick out of them,' he said. 'Now you're a bit like, 'Oh, should I do that one? Should I talk about this?', and you think a bit more about it, because you do get that access, and you do meet these people.' However, Moore's aversion to outright cruelty resulted in him retiring his Harry Maguire impression when the Manchester United and England defender became the internet's favourite punching bag. He believes being Irish 'definitely helps' – 'especially when I was in America at the golf clubs and working at the Golf Channel [where he had his own show for three years]'. Conor Moore as Mary Lou McDonald. Pic: Instagram 'People looked at you like, 'You're Irish, you're fun, you're bringing the craic here.' People know you're good for a slag and stuff.' It is rare for someone to ask to be impersonated on the spot, but the biggest star golf has produced was an exception. 'I was only after meeting him 10 seconds earlier. I said, 'How are you Tiger?' And he said, 'Oh hey buddy, do me.' 'I goes [in Woods's voice]: 'The conditions are really tough out there,' and he just turned to me and goes, 'F*** dude, you do sound just like me.'' The pair went on to make an ad together, and more recently, Moore recorded an ad with Roy Keane, whom he calls 'just brilliant fun'. 'He's just such a great laugh when you're on set with him. The Sky ad was easier, because I had met him before [on Sky Sports show The Overlap]. Conor Moore and Roy Keane. Pic: File 'But he's just very funny, and very enjoyable to do stuff with.' Inspired by Après Match's 2001 video Live At The Olympia, Moore began doing impressions in school with his good friend Alan Cashman – 'the only fella that actually enjoyed them' – who he still bounces new material off. Years later, working in sales after a stint in finance in New York, he was photographed contributing to 'a bit of a scuffle' at a GAA match. He said: 'There was a picture of me in the paper – it was none too flattering, but it was harmless – and I did a video on it, taking the mick out of Mourinho, Dunphy, Beckham, all these lads talking about it. I sent it into the WhatsApp group, and one of the boys put it on Facebook, and it gathered legs. 'I quit my job then about two weeks later, and said: 'Right, I'll give this thing a crack. I'll make some videos online and see if I can get a job doing it.' And rang me up about four months after that and gave me a job.' His upcoming, almost-sold-out live tour will be his second, and features on-stage interactions with pre-recorded segments and material adjusted according to what part of the country he is performing in. He plans to do a full Formula 1 tour in future, which he acknowledges could take him 'anywhere' given the sport's global popularity, helped by Netflix docuseries Drive To Survive. Moore says he wasn't even an F1 fan himself before that series, illustrating the endless creative potential of a top impersonator. 'Someone said to me, 'Make hay when the sun shines,' and I'm like, 'I'm hoping it shines now for the next 40 years or whatever.' 'If a new person comes along, you just learn them. In two or three years, I could have another Irish show with completely new people.' But he said interesting characters are harder to come by in football these days. 'They're so well media-trained to give the same stock answers,' he said. 'Where you're getting content is probably Keane and [Gary] Neville and these boys doing podcasts. They're actually just coming out saying whatever. 'In terms of managers and players, it's so hard to find characters in that.'

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