Cashews are native to Brazil but are now grown in various countries worldwide. Despite being commonly referred to as nuts, they are seeds that develop on the underside of cashew apples, also known as cashew fruits. These seeds are enclosed in kidney-shaped shells, which are surrounded by several toxic layers.

Cashew nuts offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in vitamin K, dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and various essential minerals. Additionally, they are an excellent source of energy, with just 18 cashew nuts containing approximately 5 grams of protein, fulfilling about 10% of the average daily protein requirement.

Are Cashews toxic?

Cashews themselves are not toxic to consume when properly processed. However, the raw cashew nuts, as they are found on the tree, are encased in a shell that contains urushiol, a toxic resin.

The process of safely removing cashew nuts from their shells involves heating (either through roasting or boiling), which destroys the urushiol, making the nuts safe to eat.

What are Cashew Apples/Cashew Fruit?

Cashew apples, also known as cashew fruits, are the fleshy part attached to the cashew nut, which is the seed of the fruit. The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) produces these unique fruits. The cashew apple has a pear-shaped or bell-shaped appearance and can be yellow, red, or a combination of both colors when ripe, featuring a soft, juicy texture.
Although less known than the cashew nut itself, cashew apples are edible and valued in many cultures for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor. They can be consumed fresh or used in various culinary applications, including making juices, jams, and even alcoholic beverages.

Nutritionally, cashew apples are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals, offering health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. However, their perishable nature and the delicate texture of the fruit make them less commonly available in markets outside of the regions where they are grown, as compared to the more durable and widely transported cashew nuts.

Nutritional value of cashews

• ●  165-170 kcal
• ●  5g protein
• ●  13-14g fat
• ●  9-10g carbohydrate
• ●  1g fibre

  Minerals: They are a good source of minerals such as copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc.
  In addition to providing a satisfying crunch and delicious flavor, cashews offer several health benefits, including promoting heart health, supporting bone health, aiding in weight management, and boosting overall energy levels.