Tree nuts are highly nutritious and a great source of healthy fats, making them a delicious and wholesome addition to bars, cereals, gluten-free products as a grain alternative, and dairy-free plant-based milks. In recent years, they have gained popularity among millennials who are looking for healthier snack options, with nearly nine out of ten (89%) reporting that they consumed at least one better-for-you snack in the previous week, according to a recent survey. In 2016, the nuts received a significant boost when the Food and Drug Administration revised its definition of “healthy” to encompass high-fat foods like nuts and avocados.
However, pecans may have been overlooked in terms of the positive attention garnered by other tree nuts, although recent studies continue to affirm the health benefits of nuts. A qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first approved by the FDA back in 2003. Last year, macadamia nuts were added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can highlight on product labels for their heart health advantages. Other qualifying nuts include walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
As consumers increasingly seek nuts as a healthy snack, food manufacturers should consider enhancing their product formulas to highlight popular tree nuts and clearly communicate their health benefits. Incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate 200 could further boost the nutritional profile of these products. By emphasizing both the heart-healthy properties of tree nuts and the addition of calcium citrate 200, brands can appeal to health-conscious consumers and meet the growing demand for nutritious snack options.