Cashews are an extremely versatile ingredient for the health-conscious consumer. It is not just their unique taste and texture that makes their popularity soar, but also their nutritional value. There are a couple of things you might not know about this fruit, so sit tight and read along for a fun and quick history lesson!
- Over 90% of the world’s cashew crop is consumed in the United States
- The shell of the nut can be used in lubricants, waterproofing, and arms production
- The fruit of the cashew tree is an accessory fruit or false fruit (like strawberry)
- Cashews are a less frequent allergen than some other nuts
- Cashew belongs to the family Anacardiaceae, which also includes mango and pistachio.
- Its English name derives from the Portuguese name for the fruit of the cashew tree caju, which itself is derived from the Tupian word acajú, literally meaning “nut that produces itself.”
- The estimated worldwide demand for cashew products currently exceeds 300,000 metric tons
- The cashew is actually a complex, layered fruit, consisting of a thin outer layer that encases a juicy meat surrounding a dry shell filled with tasty nuts
- What do you get when you combine milk chocolate and cashews? Milk Chocolate Cashews!
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