National Cashew Day: 30+ Interesting Facts About Cashew Nut- History, Health Benefits And More

Cashew nuts are one of the most popular dry fruits in the world. They are creamy, crunchy and full of good things your body needs. People celebrate National Cashew Day every year on November 23rd to honour this unique little nut that has made its way from tropical trees to homes all over the world. Although cashews were initially found in Brazil, they are now expanding rapidly throughout many countries, such as India, Vietnam, and some regions of Africa. In addition to their delicious flavour, cashews have a fascinating history and some incredible facts.

Cashews actually grow outside of a yellow-orange cashew apple rather than growing inside the fruit. They can not be eaten raw because their outer layer contains a toxic resin. The toxins are eliminated by roasting. Packed with heart-healthy fats, fibre, plant-based protein and essential nutrients, cashew nuts are great for both taste and health.

On National Cashew Day, we honour the cultural significance, fascinating growth process, and many health advantages of cashews. You'll love learning these interesting facts. 

History and Origin of Cashew Nuts

1. Cashews originally come from Brazil, where indigenous tribes first discovered the cashew tree.

2. Portuguese explorers carried cashews to India and Africa in the 1500s.

3. The word “cashew” comes from the Portuguese word *caju*, meaning “nut that produces itself.”

4. Early settlers used the cashew apple to make juices and fermented drinks.

5. India became one of the world’s biggest cashew processors by the 20th century.

Farming and Growing Facts

Amazing facts about cashews (Image: Canva)

6. Cashews grow on cashew trees, which thrive in warm tropical climates.

7. Cashew nuts grow outside the fruit, attached to the cashew apple.

8. The cashew apple is edible and juicy, but spoils quickly.

9. Cashew trees can grow up to 40 feet tall.

10. Each cashew apple grows only one single cashew nut at its bottom.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Dry Fruits Producing States In India: Cashew, Almond, Makhana And More- Know Which States Grow What

Processing and Safety Facts of Cashew

11. Raw cashew shells contain urushiol, a toxic resin also found in poison ivy.

12. This toxin makes cashews unsafe to eat until roasted.

13. Workers wear gloves during cashew shelling to avoid skin burns.

14. Steaming and roasting help remove the toxic oils safely.

15. “Raw cashews” sold in stores are actually steamed, not truly raw.

Cashew Nutrition and Health Benefits

Amazing facts about cashews (Image: Canva)

16. Cashews are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.

17. They contain magnesium, which helps improve muscle and nerve function.

18. Cashews are a good source of plant protein.

19. They support heart health by reducing bad cholesterol.

20. Cashews help strengthen bones with their calcium and phosphorus content.

21. They contain antioxidants that boost the immune system.

22. Cashews may help improve skin glow due to copper content.

23. Eating cashews in moderation can support weight management.

24. They help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

25. Cashews provide quick energy because of their healthy fat content.

Cultural and Economic Facts

26. India, Vietnam, and the Ivory Coast are top cashew producers.

27. Cashew processing employs thousands of workers, especially women.

28. Goa’s famous drink “feni” is made from cashew apples.

29. Cashews are used in several Indian dishes like kheer, biryani, and gravies.

30. Cashews are exported to over 40 countries worldwide.

ALSO READ: 4 Reasons To Eat 5 Pieces Of Soaked Cashews Every Morning

Fun and Surprising Facts About Cashew

31. Cashew trees can live for more than 30 years.

32. The world’s largest cashew tree in Brazil covers over 8,000 square meters.

33. Cashew shells are used to make paints, lubricants, and medicines.

34. Cashews are technically seeds, not true nuts.

35. Cashews are among the top five most popular nuts consumed worldwide.