BioRaw™️ Cashew Nuts

Cashew Nuts

Source

Cashew nuts are the edible seeds of the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale), which produces both a nut and a cashew apple (a pseudo-fruit). The nut grows externally on the bottom of the apple and is encased in a toxic shell that must be carefully removed.

Origin

Cashew trees are native to northeastern Brazil, but were introduced to India and Africa by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. Today, major producers include India, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Côte d'Ivoire.

Benefits

Cashew nuts are:

• Nutrient-rich: High in healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium, copper, zinc, and iron.

• Heart-healthy: Contain monounsaturated fats that may help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).

• Bone support: Rich in magnesium and phosphorus.

• Antioxidant: Contains compounds such as tocopherols and polyphenols.

• Supports metabolism and brain function due to its B-vitamin content.

Recommended Use

• Daily intake: A small handful (~15–18 cashews, or ~1 oz/28g) per day is considered a healthy serving.

• Culinary uses: Can be eaten raw (after processing), roasted, salted, or used in cooking, baking, dairy-free "cheese," and nut butters.

FDA Caution

• Raw cashews sold in stores are typically steam-processed to remove urushiol, a toxic resin also found in poison ivy.

• FDA warning: True raw cashews (unprocessed) can cause severe allergic skin reactions or internal toxicity if consumed.

• Allergy risk: Cashews are tree nuts and are among the top 8 allergens in the U.S. The FDA requires labeling of foods containing tree nuts.

• Storage caution: Cashews contain oils that can go rancid; store in airtight containers, preferably refrigerated or frozen, to maintain freshness.