An Overview of the Characteristics, Advantages, and Uses of Nuts

Nuts possess a high concentration of essential nutrients and serve as a very effective source of bioactive chemicals that promote health. Therefore, they function as significant and nutritious snacks, while also being incorporated into numerous conventional and contemporary culinary preparations over the globe. It is strongly advised to regularly consume nuts in order to fully capitalize on the nutritional, bioactive, and antioxidant properties they possess, as well as to experience their desired taste and flavor. Robust scientific data indicate that individuals who consistently consume significant quantities of nuts (15 to 30 g of nuts) exhibit reduced prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases. Nuts have been found to have positive health impacts, such as the potential to manage obesity and decrease the occurrence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, several types of cancer, and other chronic diseases associated with food. The most robust and persistent positive impact of nut consumption is its correlation with decreased incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nuts find application in several food products within the food industry, encompassing oil, spreads, as well as in other sectors such as cosmetics and medicine, and as a viable source of biodiesel. The objective of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive overview of the characteristics, advantages, and uses of nuts.