- Cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale) come from the cashew tree native to northeastern Brazil.
- The cashew tree is a tropical evergreen in the Anacardiaceae family. Some other popular crop members of the family are mangoes and pistachios.
- Cashews are rich in heart-healthy fats, providing a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
- Cashew nuts are relatively high in calories, providing around 157 calories per ounce (28 grams), making them a good energy source.
- Cashews are the 3rd most produced nut in the world, after almonds and walnuts.
- They are also a good source of plant-based protein, with about 5 grams of protein per 28 grams (1 ounce).
- Major producers of cashews include Vietnam, India, Ivory Coast, and Brazil.
- The cashew nut shell contains a toxic oil called urushiol, which is removed during processing.
- Cashews are an excellent source of minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc, which are important for bone health.
- They are high in antioxidants, such as polyphenols and carotenoids, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Cashews can be eaten raw, roasted, or used to make cashew butter and dairy alternatives like cashew milk and cheese.
- Though less known, cashew apples are edible and can make jams, juices, or alcoholic beverages in some cultures.
Reference: https://inc.nutfruit.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Statistical-Yearbook-2022-2023.pdf
