BioRaw™️ Almond Tree Nuts

Almond Tree Nuts

Source

Almond nuts are the edible seeds of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis), which belongs to the Rosaceae family. The almonds we eat are not true nuts but seeds enclosed within a hard shell, found inside the fruit of the almond tree.

2. Origin

• Native Region: Almonds are native to the Middle East and South Asia, particularly countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and surrounding areas.

• Cultivation Today: The leading global producer is the United States, especially California, which supplies over 80% of the world's almonds. Other producers include Spain, Iran, Australia, and Italy.

3. Benefits

Almonds are a nutrient-dense food with several health benefits:

Nutritional Content (per 28g/1oz, ~23 almonds):

• Calories: ~160

• Protein: 6g

• Healthy fats: 14g (mostly monounsaturated)

• Fiber: 3.5g

• Vitamin E: 37% RDI

• Magnesium: 19% RDI

• Calcium: 8% RDI

Key Health Benefits:

• Brain health: Rich in vitamin E and healthy fats, supporting cognitive function.

• Heart health: Help reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol and improve HDL ("good") cholesterol.

• Weight management: High in fiber and protein, which promote satiety.

• Blood sugar control: Low glycemic index, beneficial for diabetics.

• Antioxidants: Combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

4. Recommended Use

Daily Intake:

• A typical recommended amount is 1 ounce (28g) per day — roughly 20–23 almonds.

Ways to Use:

• As a snack (raw or roasted)

• Added to salads, oatmeal, or yogurt

• Ground into almond flour for baking

• Made into almond butter or almond milk

Note: Choose unsalted and dry-roasted or raw varieties for the healthiest option.

5. FDA Caution / Regulatory Notes

Aflatoxins Risk:

• Almonds can sometimes be contaminated with aflatoxins, a toxin produced by certain molds. The FDA sets strict limits on aflatoxin levels in nuts to protect consumers.

Raw Almond Pasteurization:

• In the U.S., the FDA requires all almonds labeled as "raw" to be pasteurized (via steam or approved chemical treatments) to eliminate potential pathogens like Salmonella. This rule has been in effect since 2007.

Allergy Warning:

• Almonds are a tree nut and can cause serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Products containing almonds must be labeled accordingly.

Health Claims:

• The FDA allows the following qualified health claim:

  “Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.”