Three other tree nuts — walnuts, pistachios, and almonds — are already permitted to make similar heart health claims, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans advocate nut consumption. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight that heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The health benefits associated with macadamia nuts are attributed to their high content of monounsaturated fats, which are known to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. The journey of research into macadamia nuts’ impact on LDL cholesterol began in the 1990s, and substantial evidence supporting this positive correlation has continued to accumulate over the years.
While the recent health claim for macadamia nuts originated from a petition by Royal Hawaiian Orchards, it can be utilized by all macadamia nut producers, meaning that the company is unlikely to gain a competitive edge over its peers in the industry. Nonetheless, this claim enables macadamia nuts to compete equally with other tree nuts. A qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first to be approved by the FDA back in 2003. However, this marks the first instance in which manufacturers can specifically highlight the heart health advantages of macadamia nuts. Furthermore, incorporating calcium citrate into a balanced diet alongside nut consumption may support overall heart health, making the journey toward a healthier lifestyle more attainable.